Building a Positive School Culture: Insights from EdCampNOVA

Guest Post by Hannah Turk: Fostering a Positive Learning Environment Through Teacher and Administrator Collaboration. In this post, Hannah discusses how building a positive school culture is achievable with the support of both educators and administrators.

I recently attended EdCampNOVA in Leesburg, VA, where educators from two different counties came together to share ideas and strategies. One session that stood out focused on creating a positive school culture, particularly among staff. The room was filled with principals, lead teachers, tech coaches, and classroom teachers—all offering unique perspectives on this essential topic.

It was enlightening to hear from administrators about the strengths and challenges they’ve encountered in fostering a positive learning environment for both students and staff. Each participant brought valuable insights from their role, contributing to a rich and meaningful discussion.

Building a Positive School Culture Strategy 1: The Role of Administrators in Shaping School Culture

The administrators were refreshingly candid: It all starts with leadership. They emphasized that their attitude toward teachers and professional growth sets the tone for the entire school. A recurring theme was the importance of creating a safe space for innovation, even if that means allowing room for failure.

When new ideas are met with resistance or frustration, teachers may feel discouraged, which can have a negative impact on students. A culture of growth and learning cannot thrive in an environment where mistakes are penalized and creativity is stifled. Administrators acknowledged their responsibility in ensuring teachers feel supported, heard, and empowered.

They also shared thoughtful strategies for building strong teams, planning effective staff meetings, and maintaining open lines of communication. It was clear that the administrators attending EdCampNOVA were committed to cultivating positive school cultures and were eager to share what’s working in their schools.

Building a Positive School Culture Strategy 2: Teachers and Parents are Partners in Positive Learning

Teachers in the session focused on how to extend that positive culture to students and parents. Parents are key stakeholders in education, and today’s classrooms often look very different from those they experienced growing up. That’s why clear, positive communication with parents from day one is so important.

We discussed the value of explaining the “why” behind our teaching methods and maintaining a positive tone in all interactions. Education is high-stakes for everyone involved, and when parents understand that teachers and administrators are on the same team, it creates a unified front that benefits students.

Only when teachers, administrators, and parents work together can students truly thrive in a positive and supportive learning environment.

Final Thoughts: Be the Voice for Positive Change

One of the most powerful takeaways from EdCampNOVA was the reminder that creating a positive school culture starts with us. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or support staff, you can be a force for good. By speaking up, encouraging others, and modeling positivity, you can help shift the culture in your school and inspire others to do the same.

About the Author Hannah Turk graduated from Grove City College in 2016 with a degree in Elementary and Special Education. She taught first grade in Prince William County, Virginia, and is now a full-time mom and home educator. Hannah has presented at the Pennsylvania Educational Technology Expo & Conference and the Kappa Delta Pi Convention in 2017.

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