Lauren Bryie

EDL 645: Short Article Reading 2

In the article, School Connectedness and the Transition Into and Out of Health-Risk

Behavior Among Adolescents: A Comparison of Social Belonging and Teacher Support by Clea

McNeely and Christina Falci, the author writes about how important a positive school climate is

for students. Supportive and caring relationships at school can mean better mental health and

motivation from students.

We all know that a positive school climate can create positive feelings for students

feeling more connected and safe. What I found interesting in this article was the specific areas

that a positive school climate can have on students. Attempts on suicide, whether students use

protection when having first-time sexual intercourse, and being less violent can all be lessened

by feeling safe and connected to school. That is incredible that a teacher, or other staff member

at school, could have that much influence over life-changing decisions our students face.