Differentiating School Culture and Climate

School culture and school climate are two terms that can easily be confused or intermingled. They can often be used interchangeably, as climate is a byproduct of culture. The climate of a school is thought to be more of a feeling while the culture is more foundational. Whether used in conjunction or separately, they are vital components in a reform process to improve student academic achievement. School culture when placed in context, is related to everything that happens at a school. Relationships, connectedness, expectations, teaching practices, behavior interventions, and external affects such as education policy, technology, and globalization, are all impactful to students and the culture of a school.

According to research, a school culture can influence everything that happens on a school campus and can positively or negatively affect the way administrators, teachers, and students feel. As stated above, since school climate is a byproduct of the culture, it is primarily the tone and morale of the school. The factors that affect both school climate and culture are the school district, teachers, and the classroom.

As schools move through their reform programs that address technology and overall curriculum, it is vital that school culture is not overlooked. Since the characteristics of a school’s culture are reflective of the community with which they serve, those issues that impact the community will impact the school. The culture simply is a reflection or sub-culture of the community at large. Culture itself can be defined several ways but is representative of a shared mission and vision for academic success. Stakeholders have a vested interest in the relationships, connectedness, expectations, and values that are embraced and supportive of collaboration.

The bottom line is school culture is vital to the success of a school.

Until next time...