Abstract:
The major purpose of this research was to assess the practice of principals’ performance appraisal
in secondary schools of Metekel Zone and identify the major challenging problems. Performance
appraisal is a critical task area of any organization including educational institutions. Ineffective
performance appraisal can extremely harm both the organization and individuals. Despite
considerable research on performance appraisal, there is dearth of research in the area in Metekel
Zone, in particular, and Benishangule Gumuz National Regional State, in general. The research
employed mixed design and used a survey method. Out of twelve secondary schools ten was selected
by simple random sampling technique. Data for the study were collected though questionnaire,
interview, focus group discussion and document analysis. Hundred questionnaires (20 for woreda
supervisors and 80 for school department heads) were distributed. Questionnaires (18) distributed
to woreda supervisors were returned whereas it is 77 questionnaires from the department heads. The
result indicated that the appraisers were not satisfied with current principal performance appraisal
instrument; there was no clear principal performance appraisal management system; appraisers
had no adequate knowledge about principal performance appraisal; principal‟s performance
appraisal is not only improperly practiced but also is ineffective. Based on the result, it is, thus,
recommended if :(1) the instruments of principal performance appraisal are changed and aligned
with SIP and CPD;(2)the appraisal result is used for career structure, professional growth and
competence instead of mere filling. (3) a 3600-appraisal system is used for appraising principals;
(4)appraisers give feedback after appraising secondary school principals; (5)need based training is
given to principals; and (6)principals can actually participate in the teaching- learning process
