Climate, Culture, and Collaboration: The Key to Creating Safe and Supportive Schools This article was very eye-opening to me as it highlighted positive climates and safety in schools. Author Nicole Cobb mentioned what research on school climates has shown, the roles that principals, teachers, and guidance counselors should have in regard to school climate, and how crucial it is to include student voices when planning school climate improvements.
When it comes to school violence and shootings, to educators and school personnel, it used to be an "if this happens," but in today's society, it is a question of "when will it happen." Safety has a huge impact on student's learning. "Students who do not feel safe on all levels - socially, emotionally, intellectually, and physically - cannot perform at their highest potential (Cobb.)" The article talked about how research has shown that positive school climates have a big factor not only on safety, but also on discipline, bullying, suspensions, and other conduct problems. Having a positive school climate benefits everyone from teachers, to students, and to parents and allows everyone to stay connected.
I really liked how Cobb mentioned having surveys, interviews, etc. to help form a school climate plan because
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They are in the driver's seat and "lay the groundwork for a positive and trusting environment (Cobb)." The perceptions, expectations, and behaviors that teachers have can help sustain and improve school climate. School counselors can hold workshops and training sessions that allow collaboration amongst administrators, teachers, students, and parents as well as enhance student education opportunities. Students often go unrecognized when it comes to school problems; therefore, their voices need to be heard as it is "the most authentic means of advocating for social justice and promoting a positive school climate