THE INFLUENCE OF THE BEN’S BELLS KIND CAMPUS PROGRAM ON SCHOOL CLIMATE IN A SCHOOL DISTRICT IN TUCSON, ARIZONA

Abstract

Preliminary qualitative research has suggested that participants find the Ben’s Bells Kind Campus Program to be effective in promoting kindness and reducing negative school climate, but this has not been examined quantitatively. The purpose of the present study is to examine the influence of the Kind Campus Program on school climate in a school district in Tucson, Arizona. It is predicted that there will be an association between the Kind Campus Program and school climate. Data for this study were collected from surveys distributed to teachers and students in the school district. Variables encapsulating positive and negative school climate and dosage were created from statements from these surveys. Analyses were conducted on the relationships between these variables to determine the level of influence of Kind Campus on school climate. Results demonstrate a positive correlation between Kind Campus and positive school climate, and a negative correlation with negative school climate. Implications of the current study include a greater understanding of how Kind Campus is associated with school climate and what aspects of the program have the greatest possible relationship with school climate. Future research possibilities include administering surveys throughout the school year to acquire longitudinal data and including observational data in the analysis.