Educational Leadership Practices in Primary Schools of Bench Sheko Zone

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine the practice of educational leadership in primary schools. The case of guraferdaworeda bench sheko zone. The study employed descriptive survey method and was conducted in eight primary schools. To collect the relevant data questionnaire, interview and document analysis were used during the study. Data was gathered from 80 teachers, 12 school principals and vice principals, 4 supervisors,5 educational office heads and stakeholders and were analyzing using five rating scales and mean. The participants of the study were selected randomly and conveniently based on their responsibility. The review of literature focused on leadership in education within this concept, the concept of leadership, theoretical background of leadership, leadership styles, leadership skills of leaders and managerial functions of school leadership. Descriptive survey method was supported by qualitative study that was employed to study the practices. To collect the relevant data questionnaire of both closed and open ended questions were used. Interview and document analysis were conducted during the study. Accordingly, questionnaire was prepared to be filled by teachers and principals, and interviews were administered for cluster supervisor and educational office heads and stakeholder. The data obtained through questionnaires were analyzed using statistical tool such as mean. On the basis of this data principals are found to be less effective in their leadership due to lack of experience and qualification in the profession. Finally, based on the findings and conclusions, recommendations were made on capacity building and empowering of principals to do their work effectively, in turn, encouraging participatory approach of leadership. Furthermore, bench sheko zone, guraferdaworeda education sector and other concerning body are responsible to give directives and guidelines in the case that whenever shortcomings and gaps are observed and the schools should work hard on implementing school improvement programs to improve school community relations. From the findings of the study the researcher conclude that leaders have a great gap to improve schools and school program me. The overall recommendation of the study was to improve Leadership aspiration, awareness creation and raising program should be conducted through providing training, workshops and experience share.