SCHOOL LEADERS’ EFFORTS IN CREATING A CONDUCIVE SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT FOR LEARNING IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS OF NORTH SHOA ZONE, OROMIA REGIONAL STATE

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze school leaders’ efforts in creating a conducive school environment for learning in secondary schools of North Shoa Zone. To achieve this purpose, the descriptive survey method was employed. Interview, questionnaire, document analysis and observation checklist were used as instrument of data collection. Data were collected from 10 government secondary schools. A total of 107 teachers, 73 SIC members, 10 PTA head and 5 secondary school supervisors were used for the study. The data were analyzed by frequency, percentage, mean scores, and narrative description. To check whether there exists a significant difference between the opinions of teachers and SIC members, independent t-test was employed. The study indicates most of the respondents were experienced enough and had awareness about their school nature and culture. The study found that most school leaders were not qualified with leadership profession. According to this study, secondary school environment was moderately conducive for learning regarding to school facilities and students empowerment. However, the extent to which students were supported in schools was underway in secondary schools. In terms of school facilities, there were inadequate facilities like standard laboratories and libraries, lack of access and use of technologies like internet and adequate computers and separate latrines. Regarding to empowerment of students, opportunity for gender equality of students to participate in school leadership was under way. Provisions of supports for students were problematic in secondary schools. In this case, students with special needs were ignored which needs nearby support. Regarding to school facility and students support, low efforts were employed by school leaders in creating a conducive learning school environment that address the physical and mental health needs of all students and staff. They employed moderate efforts regarding to empowering students. Low leadership competency, technical skill and experience of school leaders were among the factors highly affecting school leaders to create conducive learning school environment. Based on the findings, some recommendations were suggested. First, School leaders should use their understanding of SIP to enhance conducive school environment for learning. Second, MoE and REB should provide training for school leaders in professional development activities and bring competent and trained personnel to the leadership position