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School Climate
and Culture

School climate is formed by the environments we live in that shape our relationships, patterns of movement, emotional well-being, and physical health. Schools and neighborhoods where young people feel safe, connected, and supported are critical to their health, wellness, and academic success.

School climate can be improved by creating youth centers, safe routes to school, and places to access healthy foods. Training staff to be trauma-informed can support students’ social-emotional development. Using restorative practices instead of punitive responses can change the school culture so youth can succeed and thrive.

We are collaborating with public and private partners throughout Alameda County to develop facilities and infrastructure that support a positive school climate and culture. We partner with schools and districts to build initiatives to improve school climate and train school staff.


KEY DOWNLOAD

School Climate for Learning

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KEY DOWNLOAD

Literature Review: Police in Schools and Re-imagining School Safety

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How it works

The process of creating a positive school climate is one that requires that teachers and staff act as a team and actively engage students, parents, and the community. This process begins with dialogue on a school-by-school basis, forming teams, and implementing a plan.

Working to create a positive school climate requires a major shift in our perspective, from reactive to proactive. It is a shift from the concept of working with a small percentage of students who have serious issues to putting our resources into creating an overall environment that is conducive to learning —
a positive physical environment with caring relationships, high expectations, and opportunities for meaningful participation.

Resources