Abstract:
The main purpose of this study was to assess school leaders’ role in strengthening school
community link in preparatory schools of Arsi zone. To conduct this study, a descriptive
survey design employed. A total of 255 respondents (94 teachers, 35 school leaders, 105
student-councils representatives and monitors,7PTAs and 14 WEOPTL) were included in
the study. The teachers selected by using simple random sampling lottery method, while
others respondents selected by availability sampling method. Data gathered through
questionnaires were analyzed using, Frequency, Percentage, Mean, Average mean and
One-Way ANOVA tested. Data obtained through interview and document analysis qualitatively
analyzed. The study revealed that, School leaders were not found to be effective
in discharging their responsibilities; in strengthening school community link , in promoting
awareness, in setting community involvement direction, in sharing experiences, in
developing interest and commitment, managing the environment effectively were found
medium. With regarded to policy provision school leaders did not regularly evaluate the
effectiveness of school community mobilization strategy were found low. The finding indicated
that, school leaders un successful leadership role to bring change, lack of promoting
awareness, interest and commitment, reluctance of school leaders, PTAs and
KETB, negative attitude of school leaders. Thus, the study recommended MoE and
REBfacilitate condition in which qualified, well trained, self aware and interested school
leaders to be assigned and allocate budget in cooperating community to construct new
buildings as such all preparatory school to have their own compounds, and for new
school leaders, short term work Shop and training to be given by the REB and ZEO.
School leaders were recommended to allow and encourage team-working habit, give short
time trainings for teachers, student council representatives PTAs and KETBs, communicate
and give clear information on the issues related with areas of community participation.
