Exploring Correlates of Within-Group Variation in Latinx School Climate Perceptions

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 6
  In Roundtable Session: School Climate Experiences of Marginalized Student Groups

Abstract

Using latent class analysis and multinomial logistic regression, sources of heterogeneity in school climate perceptions among a large sample of Latinx 7th grade students from California (n = 20,050) are examined. Results show that Latinx youth with high English-language proficiency and more highly educated parents are more likely to belong to the most desirable school climate class. Moreover, this most desirable school climate class is associated with the highest self-reported grades. Gender is not associated with belonging in the most desirable school climate class, as males and females are equally represented, but gender-related differences emerge in classes with mixed school climate perceptions. Additional within-group variation across four additional school climate classes is described.

Authors

• Meagan O'Malley, California State University, Sacramento

• Lisa S. Romero, California State University - Sacramento