This item bank was generated from a comprehensive reviewofboth the climate and effective schools literature and an analysis of existingclimate instruments used by both researchers and practitioners. After initial pilot tests, two forms of the instrument were further refined in a national pilot study. These two national studies and relateddata analysis were conducted at Western Michigan University. Instrument readability is rated at grades 5-6. Assessment of all major stakeholder groups, rather than a singlegroup, is recommended.
Broader assessment allows for comparison of perceptionsbetween and among groups.
These comparisons can be useful in discerningand planning for appropriate interventions to improve school environments. Perceptions about the quality of the interpersonal and professional relationships between teachersand students. Perceptions aboutthequality of maintenance and the degree of security people feel at the school. Perceptions of the degreeto which school administrators are effective in communicating with different role groups andin setting high performance expectations for teachers and students. Perceptionsaboutstudent attention to task and concern for achievement at school.