Fostering a Positive School Culture Through Teacher and Administrator Collaboration

Creating a positive school culture is essential for student success and it starts with strong collaboration between teachers and administrators. In this post, guest author Hannah Turk shares insights from EdCampNOVA, where educators and leaders discussed strategies for building supportive learning environments.

Why School Culture Matters

A positive school culture impacts everything from teacher morale to student achievement. When educators and administrators work together, they create a foundation of trust, communication, and shared goals that benefits the entire school community.

Strategy 1: The Role of Administrators in Building School Culture

At EdCampNOVA, administrators emphasized that leadership sets the tone for school culture. Their key points included:

• Modeling positivity and growth mindset

• Creating a safe space for innovation and risk-taking

• Supporting teachers through open communication and collaboration

When administrators encourage creativity and allow room for mistakes, teachers feel empowered to try new strategies. This culture of support leads to better teaching and improved student outcomes.

Strategy 2: Teachers and Parents as Partners

Teachers highlighted the importance of extending positive culture beyond the classroom. Parents are essential partners in education, and clear, positive communication helps build trust. Key tips include:

• Explaining the “why” behind teaching methods

• Maintaining a positive tone in all interactions

• Building a unified team of teachers, administrators, and parents

When everyone works together, students thrive in a supportive learning environment.

Be the Voice for Positive Change

One powerful takeaway from EdCampNOVA: creating a positive school culture starts with YOU. Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or support staff, you can:

• Model positivity and collaboration

• Encourage innovation and growth

• Speak up and advocate for a supportive environment

Together, we can transform schools into places where both students and educators flourish.

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.

Connect with Dr. Sam Fecich

Want to keep the conversation going beyond the blog? I’d love to connect with you! Whether you're a future educator, a current teacher, or someone passionate about edtech and innovation in the classroom, there are plenty of ways to stay inspired and supported.

Discover Your Student Teacher Superpower. Take the free quiz: What’s Your Student Teacher Superpower? and uncover your unique strengths in the classroom!

Join the Conversation on Instagram. Tag me @sfecich with your thoughts and takeaways.

Remember, EDUmagicians...You have the EduMagic within you. Keep shining, keep growing, and keep making a difference.