Promoting a Positive School Climate Through Religious and Ethnic Diversity
Abstract
The aim of this study is to examine the establishment of a positive school climate emphasizing the engagement of diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds within school communities in fostering such an environment through qualitative research. There were thirty participants from the school community, including ten students, ten teachers, five school committees, and five school administrators from three featured secondary schools in Central Java, Indonesia, with various religions and ethnicities. Data was collected by interviewing the participants. A spiral-like analytic loop process was used to analyze the data. This study’s findings indicate that the school community, comprising students, teachers, administrators, and committee members from diverse backgrounds, collaborates to foster a positive school climate through various implemented programs and activities aimed at establishing a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment conducive to effective learning and positive relationships. This research contributed to elucidating the significance of a pleasant school atmosphere in enhancing the quality of the teaching and learning process among participants of a diverse group. Furthermore, it provides valuable insights for educators and serves as a foundation for formulating realistic school regulations grounded in empirical facts, thereby fostering a healthy school environment.