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The term school culture generally refers to the beliefs, perceptions, relationships, attitudes, and written and unwritten rules that shape and influence every aspect of how a school functions. The term is often extended to include more concrete issues like the physical and emotional safety of students, the orderliness of classrooms and public spaces, or the degree to which a school embraces and celebrates racial, ethnic, linguistic, or cultural diversity.

A welcoming, inclusive and safe school culture creates the foundation for successful students, educators and family members. School cultures that support and include English Learners (ELs) and their families are characterized by:
• Teachers that demonstrate knowledge of and respect for the backgrounds and cultures of the students and families living in their communities.
• Curriculum that incorporates multicultural perspectives and materials.
• Engaged families who are partners in their child’s education.
• Community connections that leverage and reinforce support for families.

School culture results from both conscious and unconscious perspectives, values, interactions, and practices. Students, parents, teachers, administrators, and other staff members all contribute to their school’s culture, as do other influences such as the community in which the school is located, the policies that govern how it operates, or the principles upon which the school was founded.

Fostering Student Culture & Supporting Student Voice For English Learners in a STEM Classroom

Focus on Student-Led Conferencing