Huntsville's Promise
Our Children Our Future
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A School with Heart By Beth Burt Mance Park Middle School Principal Do you feel the heartbeat of a school as you enter the doors? This heartbeat is the climate of the school. Two factors that both affect and help to define school climate are the social and educational atmosphere of a school. School climate refers to the feel of a school when you walk in the door. School climate influences students, parents, school faculties and the community. While individual schools have a climate independent of the district, changes at the district level can positively or adversely affect school climate at the building level. School climate is evident in the feelings and attitudes about a school expressed by students, teachers, staff and parents. It is a significant factor in improving academic performance and school reform. A positive school climate is one that is welcoming and conducive to learning. Students are and feel safe and comfortable while at school. Classrooms are visible and inviting. The school is viewed as a caring community where the welfare of students is the number one goal. Classrooms and grounds are clean and well maintained. Friendly faces are everywhere. School personnel let students know that they come first. A positive school climate promotes communication and interaction. Teachers and students actively communicate. Teachers are collegial. Teachers know their students. Student groupings are diverse. Parents and teachers are partners in the educational process. Parents perceive the school as warm, inviting and helpful. Teachers and parents have contact frequently through conferences, phone calls, email or weekly notes. A positive school climate promotes a sense of belonging and self esteem. Interaction of teachers and staff with all students is caring, responsive, supportive and respectful. Students trust teachers and staff. Morale is high among staff. There is a sense of community. Instruction is challenging, creative and promotes a natural curiosity and joy of learning. Students are inspired to do their best. Students are encouraged to be risk takers. Being a caring school doesn’t conflict with being a challenging school A positive school climate promotes learning and self fulfillment. There is an emphasis on academics. Teaching methods respect the different ways children learn. Expectations are high for all students. Progress is monitored. Results of assessments are used to evaluate and redesign instructional strategies and content. Learning is personalized so that no child is left behind. Students today are facing unparallel demands. Having a school with a positive climate will help foster knowledgeable, responsible and caring students. Through our schools, we create a legacy for our future.
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