Chapter+7

Chapter 7 A Positive School Climate****

Within a positive school climate lies a strong and necessary foundation for growth and achievement. A developmentally responsive middle school is composed of staff and students that feel safe, are willing to take risks, and maintain the ability to come together for support during a crisis. Most importantly, this type of environment fosters problem solving and critical thinking,two necessary components of achievement. There exist numerous studies that support the contention that a positive and nurturing climate promotes [|success] in terms of life long learning. The maintenance of a developmentally responsive climate within a middle school depends upon the inclusion of four components:
 * Recognition* creating opportunities to show appreciation through the use of notes on mail boxes, "shout outs" within news letters and the provision of faculty meetings to celebrate accomplishments are but a few examples. As I contemplate upon the saying; "Those who can do and those who can't teach," sadly I must contend that the regard among many within our society toward education is revealed. Hence, there exists a great need for support and encouragement.
 * Communication***The inclusion of a newsletter that is current coupled with a school-wide calendar and regularly scheduled meetings would result in an atmosphere in which all are informed and thereby able to participate as new implementations are included towards achieving the school's shared vision.
 * Shared Leadership**Educators agree that when students are able to gain and maintain a sense of ownership in regards to their education, they are more likely to [|succeed.*] *Whilethis is true for students, it is equally proven true for staff members. Hence [|educators] should be included as leaders within professional develpoment meetings and teachers should have a great deal of input regarding the selectionof what is presented in an effort to develop staff and infuse best practices.
 * Opportunities for Growth** Including but not limited to activities such as a buddy system that would allow teachers to communicate openly and honestly and teachers sharing best practices.


 * Summary****:A school in which a positive climate can thrive looks like one in which pride eminates through its physical components, e.g., banners,posters, and student work. Further, a developmentally responsive school focuses on the needs of the students that are serviced. This is a crucial component within middle schools.*Finally, the school community within a positive climate includes parental input and acts as part of the community in which the school exists involving all stakeholders dedicated to student achievement and a vision that is shared through true collaboration among all stakeholders.