School Culture n n n Defined school culture

School Culture n n n Defined: school culture is the set of norms, values and belief, rituals and ceremonies, symbols and stories that make up the ‘persona’ of the school Two types: Positive and Toxic (p. 13) Authors who talk about the power of school culture: Ables, Lazotte, Marzano, Wagner, Collins, Du. Four, Rieria, Mattos, Muhammad

Re-culturing SRVHS n n n Learning Community – Staff and Student Cultural change versus Technical change 3 R’s – Rigor, Relevance and Relationships Emphasis on Climate for ALL students Not a program

40 Developmental Assets n n n Search institute why Youth engage in risk taking behavior 10 most frequent (p. 5) Flip question - why are some successful? What does that look like (40 assets) 40 Developmental Assets - Identify successful “Traits” – experiences/opportunities Studies show that the more assets youth have/develop, the more successful they are.

Percent of Youth Reporting Thriving Indicators, by Asset Level

Percent of Youth Reporting High-Risk Behavior Patterns, by Asset Level

Why is this important to SRVHS and You Three reasons: 1. Cultural Change – we are shifting our focus onto the Student (learning) 1. Positive learning environment (SRSA) 2. All kids, not just the few 3. Jack O’Connell 2. Adult Relationships are key 1. Students are ours for 6+ hours 3. Partnership with Parents and Community 1. change the culture that raises our youth

What can you do? • Already doing • Other steps: • 20/80 – interchangeable empathy (being genuine) • How’s it going? How’s school? What’s up? • Engaging students (3 R’s) • Sparks – primary energy, intrinsic motivation, passion (2/3)

What do you want me to do? n n Continue…promote a positive climate thru cultural change Learn about: n n n Your SPARK (S) Your Colleagues SPARK (S) Your students SPARK (S)