Perceptions of Parents and Community Members as a Measure of School Climate

School climate is a term used to describe people’s perceptions of their school. It combines beliefs, values, and attitudes of students, teachers, administrators, parents, office personnel, custodians, cafeteria workers, business partners, community members, and others who play important roles in the life of the school. Perceptions can often have as great an impact as reality. The perceptions of students, parents, and the neighboring community are key components of creating an atmosphere where teachers can teach, students can learn, parents can take an active role in the education of their children, and excellence can be achieved.