This document is the first working paper corresponding to a series called The Rest of the School and is focused on a simplified look at the significance of the School Mission, Climate, Culture and Leadership, and their importance for beginning teachers.However, it might well be of use for school directives and veteran teachers who are actively carrying out their functions in schools today to refresh their focus on these important factors.Teachers in formation are provided with ample preparation in all pedagogical skills and with expertise in their subject area.Nonetheless, once in the classroom these new teachers often find themselves lost when trying to understand the less obvious dynamics of a school.Likewise, veterans in teaching and educational leadership might have lost concentration on these components of school life as they become absorbed with the daily development of their classes and administrative tasks.Mission, Climate, Culture and Leadership are the untouchable but palpable aspects which make a school function and make the members of the institution feel a sense of accomplishment with their work and at ease and pleased with their place in the network.This working paper is a reflective overview, based upon research and experience, and is intended to highlight the impact of Mission, Climate, Culture and Leadership on effective teaching and learning.