YOUTH FIRST: Check the climate control in your school

When we talk about climate control at school, we are not necessarily referring to the efficiency of the heating and air-conditioning system.

Just as we have a responsibility to protect our natural environment through recycling, reusing and energy efficiency, we also have a responsibility to protect the environment of schools.

School climate is the atmosphere of a setting or "learning environment" in which students have different experiences, depending upon the protocols set up by the teachers and administrators.

Teachers and administrators in our schools work diligently to maintain a school climate that promotes high student achievement and pro-social behaviors.

For example, they build positive relationships with students in and out of the classroom; they develop personal growth plans for themselves as well as their students; and they maintain orderliness by enforcing the necessary and appropriate rules.

There are three dimensions that create an overall school climate.

The physical dimension includes things such as the upkeep and appearance of the school building and classrooms, along with the order, organization, resources, safety and comfort of those in the building.

The social dimension pertains to the quality of personal relationships between students, teachers and staff. It also can be affected by the degree of social competition and comparisons in the building and the degree to which students, teachers and staff contribute to decision-making.

The academic dimension is revealed through quality instruction, teacher expectations for student achievement and monitoring progress and reporting results to students and parents through midterms and grading reports.

Many factors influence the school climate, including the number of quality interactions between adults and students, student and teacher perceptions, academic performance, feelings about safety and school size, and feelings of trust and respect for students and teachers.

A stronger school climate is linked to higher grades and attendance, expectations and aspirations, higher self-esteem, less anxiety and depression, less substance abuse and fewer suspensions and better retention.

The school relies on parents and community partners, as well as evidence-based prevention programs such as those provided by Youth First Inc., to contribute to a more positive climate.

Family involvement is truly essential. According to the research, when parents are engaged at their children's schools, it has a positive impact on their parenting skills and the overall family climate at home, which in turn enhances the child's success back at school. This circle of positive support can make a huge difference.

It's clear that everyone connected to or involved in a school has a part to play in improving the educational environment for all. Ask yourself: "What is my role in improving school climate and how will I get involved?" And then do it.