ROLE OF SCHOOL LEADERS INSTRENGTHENINGS SCHOOL COMMUNITY LINK TO ENHANCE STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT IN THE CASE OF PREPARATORY SCHOOLS OF ARSI ZONE, OROMIAREGIONAL STATE

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.