Page 19 - Shared Solutions: A Guide to Preventing and Resolving Conflicts Regarding Programs and Services for Students with Special Education Needs 2007

Preventing Conflicts
A “culture of collaboration” can help parents and educators to work construc- tively together to address concerns related to programs and services before they become sources of conflict. To create such a culture, boards and schools need to promote a positive school climate and establish effective lines of communication among parents, students, and educators.
A Positive School Climate
A positive school climate benefits students, parents, and educators. In such a climate, students with special education needs feel good about themselves as valued learners whose achievements are respected. Parents feel welcomed and involved and are reassured that their children are receiving a good education and are making demonstrated progress. Educators feel that their expertise is respected so that they can focus on what they do best, which is teaching students.
Achieving and maintaining a positive school climate requires teamwork on the part of educators, parents, and students. Research data show that the greater the family involvement in schools the better the outcomes in terms of students’ aca- demic performance, attendance, and attitude (Carter, 2002). By encouraging family involvement and developing and maintaining relationships of mutual trust and respect with parents and students, schools enhance students’ ability to succeed.
THE HALLMARKS OF A POSITIVE SCHOOL CLIMATE9
✓ Everyone is treated with respect.
✓ The school is a caring and responsive environment.
✓ Educators encourage and maintain regular interaction between schools and families.
✓ The school culture develops a sense of community and caring relationships to provide all students with greater opportunities to achieve success.10
9. Adapted from Ottawa-Carleton District School Board, Positive School Climate Checklist, 2006.
10. For more information on school culture and character development, see Ontario Ministry of
Education, Finding Common Ground: Character Development in Ontario Schools, K–12, 2006.
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