I came from a school that was clickish and gossipy. The teachers tattled nearly as much as the kids! I didn't realize just how much it affected the atmosphere of the school until I moved. I'm now in a school where nearly everyone is focused on the students. We are supportive of each other and the catty remarks are kept to a minimum. I'm not saying it's perfect, but it sure is better than the previous school. Funny thing is this school is in a very low income area with dismal living conditions. The other school was across town in one of the very best neighborhoods. I've come to believe that the reason the teachers in my current school are so nice is because they just don't have time to play the little games the teachers at "Nose-in-the-air" Elementary play.
I hope your move works as well for you. The right school environment does make a big difference.