koolikultuuri

koolikultuuri refers to the shared beliefs, values, norms, and practices that shape the social and academic environment of a school. It encompasses how students, teachers, and staff interact, how decisions are made, and what the school emphasizes as important. A school’s koolikultuuri emerges from daily routines, rituals, language, symbols, and power structures, and it can be both consciously cultivated and tacit.

Components include values and norms (e.g., emphasis on academic achievement, inclusion, respect, and safety); routines and rituals (morning greetings, award ceremonies, classroom routines); communication patterns and feedback culture; the physical environment and symbols (posters, mascots, signage); and governance aspects such as student voice, teacher collaboration, and leadership style. The culture is dynamic, evolving with changes in staff, students, policy, and community context.

The concept is distinct from school climate. Climate refers to perceived experiences and attitudes at a given time, while culture denotes deeply held beliefs and practices that guide behavior over time.

Impact: koolikultuuri affects student motivation, sense of belonging, behavior, and learning outcomes. A positive culture typically features inclusive practices, high expectations, strong relationships, and restorative approaches to discipline; negative or toxic cultures may include stigma, disengagement, punitive norms, and inequitable treatment.

Assessment and development: schools use surveys, focus groups, observation, and feedback from students and families to gauge culture. Interventions include social-emotional learning, restorative justice, professional development, and mechanisms for meaningful student participation in decision-making.