School Climate Exploration Plan
Students will be able to define school climate and identify factors that contribute to a positive or negative school environment.
Understanding school climate helps students recognize their role in creating a supportive and inclusive community, improving their daily school experience and overall well-being.
Interactive discussion, individual reflection, and group activity.
Our School's Vibe Visuals (slide-deck), One Word Wonders School Snapshot (warm-up), and Climate Conversations Starter Pack (discussion)
Prep
Review Materials
15 minutes
Step 1
Warm-Up: One Word Wonders
10 minutes
- Distribute or display the One Word Wonders School Snapshot.
- Instruct students to think of one word that describes how our school 'feels' to them and write it down or share it aloud.
- Facilitate a brief sharing session, asking a few students to explain their word.
- Transition to introduce the concept of 'school climate'.
Step 2
Introduction to School Climate
15 minutes
- Present the Our School's Vibe Visuals slide deck (Slides 1-3).
- Explain what school climate is using relatable examples.
- Discuss the different aspects of school climate (safety, relationships, teaching & learning, environment).
- Encourage questions and initial thoughts from students.
Step 3
Discussion: Climate Conversations
15 minutes
- Divide students into small groups.
- Distribute or display prompts from the Climate Conversations Starter Pack.
- Instruct groups to discuss the prompts and share their thoughts on what makes a positive school climate and how peer networks contribute.
- Circulate among groups to facilitate discussion and answer questions.
Step 4
Share Out and Wrap-Up
10 minutes
- Bring the class back together.
- Ask each group to share one key takeaway from their discussion.
- Summarize the main points about school climate and the role of students.
- Emphasize the importance of positive peer networks.
- Assign a reflective journal entry or follow-up question if desired.
