This School Climate Assessment has been designed for both informal and formal school safety assessments for K–5 educators and administrators. This tool is based on the main categories that were measured in an evaluation of a multi-state pilot of Welcoming Schools. The evaluation looked at the following areas:
- Policies and Administrative Support
- School-Sponsored Trainings and Worshops
- School Climate
- Teaching Practices and Resources
- Personal Comfort Level
- School and Community Attitudes
- Self-Reflection and Next Steps
As an informal tool, an individual teacher may complete the survey to better understand his or her own practices as well as school policies that contribute to the school’s diversity and safety. As a formal tool, the survey can help faculty and staff pinpoint any school climate challenges and clarify areas that need additional attention. Areas of weakness can become the basis for a school climate improvement plan.
This assessment tool can be administered to the staff of an entire school or to any subgroup, such as fourth-grade teachers or a curriculum committee. It is not intended for use with students. To do a comprehensive school assessment, it is important to receive feedback from school staff, administrators, students and parents/guardians.
