A series of focus-group interviews was conducted to explore the meaning of selected indicators of school climate to teachers and other school personnel. The selected indicators focused on encouragement and recognition of school personnel as aspects of school climate. School personnel were interviewed in groups of 5 or 6 in 27 schools with approximately 140 teachers, counselors, and media specialists. Participants were asked how they felt a school might meet or evidence the indicator of school climate in question. Results of a content analysis of responses were used in the subsequent development of a questionnaire and interview items that were consistent with the constructs of recognition and encouragement held by school personnel. Results may also be of interest to administrators and others who wish to give school personnel meaningful recognition and encouragement. Four appendixes list responses from the focus groups, and there is an 18-item list of references. (SLD)