Positive School Climate
BP 5137.00
POSITIVE SCHOOL CLIMATE
Research indicates that student achievement is often higher in schools with a positive climate. The School Board expects that all school staff will contribute to a positive and welcoming climate in each school. This encourages staff to have positive interactions and relationships with students. A positive school climate includes safe, culturally responsive, supportive, well-managed classrooms and school enviroment. Teachers and staff should consistently acknowledge all students and fairly address students’ behavior.
School Climate refers to the social and environmental factors that contribute to students’ experience of, and attitude towards, their school. School climate is related to how well students feel connected with others at their school and how comfortable the school setting is for them as a student and for their family. The School Board recognizes that students experiencing a positive school climate are more likely to achieve success both academically and socially. The District should implement practices that support a positive school environment. These may include: appropriate expectations that are implemented in a nondiscriminatory manner, social and emotional supports, trauma informed practices, culturally responsive education and supports, community and family relationship supports, a positive peer climate, caring adult relationships, a school safety program, and opportunities for student involvement.
The Superintendent or their designee may implement and support strength-based activities such as Positive Behavior Support (PBS) and Social Emotional Learning (SEL) efforts, youth leadership initiatives, family involvement in schools, and community service projects.
All members of the school community, including staff, students, administrators, school board members and visitors, are expected to serve as role models by demonstrating positive attitudes, cultural sensitivity, and respect to students and staff members. Staff shall use effective classroom management strategies to foster positive social interactions among students, and encourage and recognize activities that foster a positive school climate.
The Superintendent or their designee may administer the School Climate and Connectedness Survey on a regular basis, shall share results with the school board, staff, students and the community, and commit to improving school climate and connectedness ratings.
(cf. 6141.3 - Multicultural Education)
(cf. 6142.4 - Community Service)
The schools shall not tolerate any form of harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Anyone who engages in these acts shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary procedures.
(cf. 5131.4 - Campus Disturbances)
(cf. 5131.43 – Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying)
(cf. 5144 - Discipline)
Legal Reference:
ALASKA STATUTES
14.33.200 Harassment, intimidation and bullying policy
KETCHIKAN GATEWAY BOROUGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
Adoption Date: 10/13/99
Revision Date: 8/27/2014
Revision Date: 3/27/2024