Teachers' Perceptions On The Effectiveness Of Boards Of Governors In Managing Public Day Secondary Schools In Kiambu East District, Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine the teachers' perception on the effectiveness of BOG in the management of public day secondary schools in Kiambu East District. This was prompted by previous studies that showed that BOG in Kenya were operating below per expectations. Five research questions were formulated to guide the study. The review of literature focused on the functions of BOG in management of secondary schools. The study employed a descriptive survey design. Data was collected through the of use questionnaires. A sample of 22 public day secondary schools out of 58 public secondary schools in the district was used. The respondents comprised of 110 teachers (HODs) and 22 Headteachers. Simple random sampling method was used to select the 22 schools. The findings revealed that the BOGs were involved in decision making in matters of discipline and formulation of school rules. They attended BOG meetings regularly, they however did not involve teachers in matters concerning, staffing, finances and implementation of school projects. It was also revealed that the BOG were involved in resource management of the schools. These included, recruitment of teachers and non-teaching staff, motivating teachers. Data showed that the BOGs were also involved in financial management of the school in areas of soliciting from parents through payment of school fees. It was further found that the BOGs were involved in provision of physical facilities. This is through approving school projects to be undertaken in the school. Based on the findings it was concluded that the BOGs were involved in various aspects of secondary school management such as decision making, resource and financial management, disciplining of staff and students, approval of school projects and curriculum support and evaluation. In the light of research findings, the researcher made the following recommendations; all those charged with the responsibility of managing schools should undergo training before they are assigned duty; it was also recommended that the BOG be involved in all areas of school management as stipulated in the Education Act and not only some aspects; they should also involve teachers in matters of development of the school since they are deserving stakeholders.