Improving High School Graduation Through School Climate

David G. Buckman, Kennesaw State University
Nathan W.J. Hand, Dawson County School System
Arvin Johnson, Kennesaw State University

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to contribute to the body of literature regarding decisions school leaders make when developing strategic plans to improve student outcomes. This study investigated whether there is a significant relationship between school climate and graduation rates for public high schools in the state of Georgia when controlling for potential covariates. Using an ordinary least squares multiple regression procedure, this study found a positive school climate increased high school graduation rates (b =.164, p ≤.01).