"School climate" refers to the quality of school life, as experienced by all students, educators, administrators, staff, and parents/caregivers in the community. School climate can be impacted by official rules and policies, norms, relationships, values, academic and behavior programs, and support systems. Positive school climates rely on strong, inclusive relationships and can lead to better academic and behavioral outcomes for students and educators.
The regular presence of police officers inside campuses can have a negative impact on school climates. Students may fear that even small behaviors could result in a ticket, an arrest, or an interaction with a police officer. This can make schools feel like uncomfortable, even dangerous, places that are not conducive to learning and student success.