Positive School Culture - Essay Sample

Introduction

In any school setting, there are ritual complexes of personal relationships, traditions, customs, norms, that make up moral codes (Coyle, 2018). School culture, like culture in general, has both static and dynamic characteristics. The static character is revealed because on the one hand culture creates a unique character in the social system by promoting a sense of belonging and commitment, and actively participates in the socialization of new members by introducing them into a particular perspective of reality. On the other, it is subject to change as the members of the organization interact with new ideas and approaches, hence its dynamic nature (Coyle,

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2018). That is, any consideration of school culture must take into account the story in terms of stability over time. There are a series of features that characterize the culture of schools that promote quality learning. The most important are the following: Flexibility on the part of the educational authorities and support for alternative school proposals. A curriculum, forms of teaching, evaluations and learning opportunities that are clearly linked to the adopted perspective and the needs and interests of students (Coyle, 2018). A clear, precise, but ambitious perspective that guides the work. Close relations of mutual support between all the parties involved. Many opportunities to create culture, discuss fundamental issues, take responsibility, celebrate individual and group achievements. Personnel managers that promote trust, permanent training, flexibility, take risks, innovation and adaptation to change. Decision making based on accurate and updated information, both qualitative and quantitative about the progress made, and sustained support of all the involved stakeholders.

Implementation of Ideas into Practice

There are several ways through which a positive school culture can be established. The first way is through the creation of meaningful and effective parent involvement. By involving parents, any feelings of hostility or mistrust are eliminated. Parents should be given a platform through which they can provide feedback on classroom-related workshops. Workshops and parent-teacher meetings should be organized so that parents and teachers can discuss the progress of their students (Coyle, 2018). The second method is by celebrating the personal achievements for students and staff as well. Compliments encourage and motivate people and make them feel loved and cared. The third method is by establishing school norms that foster values. Rules should be well-regulated and clear, it is important to ensure that these norms and values foster positive values (Coyle, 2018). Other ways include engaging students in beneficial ways such as social skills, the creation, and establishment of traditions that are fun-filled and allow students to relax in between learning. It is also important to keep tabs on the culture of the school and make any necessary adjustments. Maintaining a high-quality physical environment also fosters a positive school culture. Building a positive school culture not only takes time and effort, however, but it is also worth it at the end. Successful schools have positive cultures and students are better prepared to learn and become successful even when they are adults.

References

Coyle, D. (2018). The culture code: The secrets of highly successful groups. Bantam.