The Positive School Climate: A Theoretical Perspective

Abstract

Educators have recognized the importance of school climate for a hundred years. However, it was not until the 1950’s that educators began to systemically study school climate. School climate refers to the quality and character of school life. A positive school climate exists when all students feel comfortable, wanted, valued, accepted and secure in an environment where they can interact with caring people they trust. A positive school climate fosters youth development and learning necessary for a productive, contributing and satisfying life in a democratic society. This climate includes norms, value and expectations that support people feeling socially, emotionally and physically safe.