Developing a Positive School Climate. Newsletter

School leaders are often placed on the "hot seat" when negative images of the school, its staff, or its students appear in the local media. Such reports can strongly affect a school's public and image and, in turn, impact the climate both in the community and within the school itself. Sometimes these perceptions are not based on fact; however, they could suggest that the school climate should be examined closely. The Center for Comprehensive School Reform and Improvement at Learning Point Associates provides technical assistance to schools, districts, and states. Many schools that contact The Center are seeking strategies to enhance their school climate. This month's newsletter examines the research base behind school climate and what school administrators can do to create a positive school climate that enhances the learning environment and improves perceptions among students, staff, parents, and community members. This newsletter takes a look at the topic of school climate and sets out to determine: (1) What is school climate?; (2) How can schools assess their school climate?; (3) What are some practical examples of how schools are assessing school climate?; and (4) What resources are available to support schools interested in improving or enhancing their school climate? (Contains 1 footnote.)