School climate refers to the overall atmosphere, environment, and quality of life within a school as experienced by students, staff, and families. It encompasses perceptions of physical and emotional safety, quality of relationships, teaching and learning conditions, and the general "feel" of being in the building.

Unlike school culture (which represents deeper values and beliefs), climate is more observable and can change relatively quickly based on leadership actions, policies, or events. A positive school climate is characterized by students feeling safe, supported, respected, and engaged in learning, while negative climates involve fear, disconnection, and low morale.

Research shows that school climate significantly predicts student achievement, attendance, behavior, and retention. Students in schools with positive climates score higher on standardized tests, report greater wellbeing, and are more likely to remain enrolled. For charter and private schools competing for families, climate becomes a competitive advantage—word spreads quickly about whether a school feels welcoming, supportive, and safe.

Schools measure climate through surveys asking about safety, relationships, respect, and engagement, with pulse check-ins providing more timely data than annual assessments.