School Climate The social atmosphere in which people interact with others and the school environment The quality of interactions in the teachers’ lounge How safe people feel How easy it is for students, teachers to interact with one another

Characteristics of a Healthy Culture Unifies people within the school and its communities Focuses people on the future and points to what the school wants to become Promotes growth in the folks who work here Supports School Improvement Plan

Characteristics of a Toxic Culture Are places where negativity reigns Evolves over time Has personnel who are disconnected Depletes members’ energy, damages the members, makes it impossible to be collaborative

The Elephant in the Room… "Elephant in the room" is an English metaphorical idiom for an obvious truth that is either being ignored or going unaddressed. The idiomatic expression also applies to an obvious problem or risk no one wants to discuss.[2] It is based on the idea that an elephant in a room would be impossible to overlook; thus, people in the room who pretend the elephant is not there have chosen to avoid dealing with the looming big issue. The Elephant in the Room…

What’s Happening? Negativity Constant complaining about attempts to improve practices Refusal to comply with requests and timelines Stirring the pot Tardiness Non-participation in school events Intimidation Challenging colleagues in a condescending manner Rude remarks Rejection of ideas Ganging up Exclusion Talking about individuals behind their backs

Effects of Bullying, Harassment, and Intimidation on School Climate Creates fear and discomfort Creates insecurity and disliking of the workplace Interferes with the development of trust and rapport Interferes with student learning

WCPS Code of Conduct Respect I will respect myself and treat others as I want to be treated I will speak to others in a polite and courteous manner I will behave in a way that helps others and me to learn

WCPS Code of Conduct Caring I will be sensitive to the needs of others. I will be kind and considerate. I will help people in need. I will show compassion, concern, and caring.

Charlotte Danielson 4d Participating in a Professional Community Element: Relationships with Colleagues  Participates as a member of a school-based team (beyond your grade level) Regularly demonstrates a willingness to work collaboratively with colleagues Element: Service to the School Assisting at School Events (Family Nights/PTA events)

Charlotte Danielson 4f Showing Professionalism Element: Integrity and Ethical Conduct Being careful not to betray confidences about colleagues in the school Element: Compliance with School and District Regulations Compliance with the Code of Conduct Consistent and on time in attendance for meetings and time related aspects of the school day Consistent and on time in completing and submitting required reports and paperwork

What Is Workplace Bullying? Workplace bullying is basically what it sounds like - bullying behaviors that occur in the workplace.  The term "bullying" refers to any actions or behaviors that are intended to be: Intimidating Demeaning Belittling Condescending These behaviors may be overt in that they are obvious and marked toward the target of the bullying. They may also be covert in that they are relational aggression or sneaky. 

Might you be one of these? THE BULLY — views competent colleagues as a threat to their professional position, social standing,and/or authority THE TARGET — many adult bullies target colleagues who are stronger, more popular, more efficient, and more professional. THE BYSTANDERS — often avoid involvement because, much like kids, they are afraid of becoming the next target.

Exclusion or social alienation bullying …includes behaviors intended to exclude or alienate another individual. This can be starting rumors, talking negatively, being condescending toward someone, or finding ways to isolate the individuals.

Take Charge

IMMEDIATE STRATEGIES FOR TARGETS Name it — bullying, psychological harassment, emotional abuse. There is tremendous healing power in naming the behavior. Document the incident. Do not let the bully see you upset. Speak up only if you feel safe to do so, but recognize that incidents could escalate. Bullies don’t like to have their authority questioned or their control challenged. Use positive self-talk to get through situations. Positive images help you refocus and stay on track. Maintain trusted friendships outside of work. You will need an empathetic and honest listener.

How To Help A Co-Worker Sometimes you are not the target of workplace bullying, and instead you observe a co-worker being bullied. Again, the most important thing is to SPEAK UP and not let the bullying go unchecked.  Ensure your coworker that he or she is not alone - that you see the bullying. 

Support our Vision for School Climate This is the Wordle of your responses Respect Value Differences Acceptance Pride Collective Caring Sharing