School Climate
Research shows that the quality of school climate may be the single most predictive factor in promoting student achievement. A positive school climate promotes school safety, student self-esteem, emotional well-being, mental health, and lower incidences of substance abuse, student absenteeism, and suspensions. The New York State Education Department (NYSED) continues to promote initiatives to foster student engagement and thereby increase student achievement, safety, and wellness.
As described in New York’s Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) plan, NYSED will continue to develop and build upon existing guidance and resources to combat harassment, bullying, and discrimination, and to enhance efforts to build and maintain positive and healthy school climates.
Below are some helpful resources for addressing school climate: