Improving Campus Climate

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Measuring and trying to improve campus climate can be difficult and sometimes frustrating. There are many different facets, but when the media reports school leaders in a negative light, the school’s image is affected within the school and the local community. Educational leaders can listen to what people are saying. Some people think there isn't a problem and others feel they are not valued and respected. Cultural proficiency becomes a priority in addressing the concerns of a diverse student population. This can prompt a review of school climate (Developing a Positive School Climate, 2009).

At a Minority Serving Institution in southeast Texas, the President’s Award for Excellent Teaching was implemented as a reward system to nurture teachers and their dedication to teaching and research (Minority Serving Institution (MSI) Compact with The Texas A&M University System, 2007). Each College nominated an individual, and one winner was selected from the nine nominees. All college level winners received some recognition and reward. The following seven services are offered to students to improve campus climate.

1. diagnostic testing and disability services

2. career and outreach services where personnel assists in career and life planning through programs and services to bridge the move from college to the career world

3. intramural and recreational sports

4. special programs & cultural series which presents a program calendar of events every semester and an overview of guest performances, art exhibitions, historical celebrations, and special events

5. student activities and leadership with relevant social, cultural, intellectual, recreational, community service, leadership development

6. campus governance

7. an al...

... middle of paper ...

...sponsibility for their own learning.

In summary, Yukl (1999) found forces in the internal and external environment influenced the systems transformation process where there was a continuous exchange with the environment. Organization behavior was a function of the interactions of these elements in the context of teaching and learning (Thompson, 1967). The change agentry theory described facilitation of communities, organizations and stakeholders working together to achieve the vision of an organization. If reform was needed where student achievement was faltering, Fullan's Six Secrets of Change (2008a) as a turnaround process, allowed for focused direction with purposeful interaction of staff and teachers, efficiency, motivation, continuous learning, being transparent and collaborative in teaching techniques and methods, and increased student achievement.

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