"School Climate" is the overall feel or temperature of a school that is a summation of the faculty, students and overall environment. The faculty has a large impact on student success via this climate. If the staff has a general positive outlook and experience then that will convey throughout the school. It also takes into account the reasons as to why the faculty is affected.
If they are being unjustly taken advantage of vi poor scheduling or excessive duties, the attitude will spill into the rest of the school. If they are being positively affirmed of the successes within their classrooms, then the climate will be warm and inviting. The National Education Association uses school climate surveys to identify this.
The clubs and activities of a school are integral to student success. Students are still learning valuable tools, techniques and talents when outside of the classroom as they participate in everything from orchestra to robotics. It is the faculty of a school which makes or breaks these activities.
The staff selected must be passionate about what they do and be able to convey the lessons outside of the normal school day. The great teachers leave a lasting impression on their students and in some cases even give students lifelong hobbies or careers.
The set up of a classroom affects students habits and behavior. There have been many studies into what specifically affects students. Everything from sounds welcoming them to the classroom to arrangement of furniture to the posting of posters and charts have been considered.
In the end, the classrooms mirror the attitude of the teacher's attitude. If a faculty member is frazzled, becoming disorganized, or not having the time to adequately prepare, then the classroom will appear frazzled and disorganized which in turn is a negative environment for the students.
Make no mistake, teaching is an art. And the greatest, most lasting impression which fosters a student's success is the teacher's ability to teach. For the teachers who do this well, they are an invaluable part to the future of a student even if they are only passing through a classroom for one year.
In the end, a student generally experiences 13 to 17 years of schooling. Imagine the successes that would be unlocked if a student could be impacted by a great teacher, each year in each and every classroom.
As an administrator, promote the positive and foster creativity. As a teacher, do what you love and show the students how much you love it in every moment that is taught. As a parent, stay informed as to how your child interacts with their teacher so you can thank and acknowledge them when the time is appropriate. As a student, remember that every part of the faculty from custodian to crossing guard plays a part in your success.