What is School Climate?

NSCC defines school climate as the quality and character of school life. School climate is based on patterns of students’, parents’ and school personnel’s experience of school life; it also reflects norms, goals, values, interpersonal relationships, teaching and learning practices, and organizational structures.

A sustainable, positive school climate fosters youth development and learning necessary for a productive, contributory, and satisfying life in a democratic society.

A positive school climate includes:

  • Norms, values, and expectations that support people feeling socially, emotionally and physically safe
  • People are engaged and respected
  • Students, families, and educators work together to develop and contribute to a shared school vision
  • Educators model and nurture attitudes that emphasize the benefits and satisfaction gained from learning
  • Each person contributes to the operations of the school and the care of the physical environment

-National School Climate Council, 2007