It Is Difficult to Improve Student Achievement without First Improving School Culture.

Students are more involved in their own learning when they feel safe, valued, and connected. Teachers are more effective when they are working in a school where their professional judgment is trusted and their efforts in the classroom are validated. They are more motivated and more energized when the energy in the building is positive. Their instruction and assessments are more meaningful when they have the support and inspiration of their colleagues. If principals want to impact student achievement, it is incumbent on them to invest their energy in creating the type of school culture where both teachers and students are engaged in the educational process. Certain conditions are clearly more favorable than others for fostering student learning and increasing student achievement. Effective school leaders are focused on creating those conditions.