School improvement practices of junior high school headteachers in Tano North Municipality

Abstract

This study investigated school improvement practices of Junior High School Headteachers in the Tano North Municipality. The study employed mixed method approach which was underpinned by pragmatic paradigm of which the researcher involved the use of qualitative and quantitative data collection approaches. The researcher, employed census frame was used to involve all the sixty-seven (67) in the quantitative phase of the study while maximal variation sampling technique was employed to select twelve (12) headteachers who had already responded to the questionnaire were selected for interview for qualitative data. A questionnaire was used to collect data for the quantitative phase of the study while interview guide was used to collect data for the qualitative phase of the study. Quantitative data was analyzed through the use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0 software indicating means and standard deviations, to present the results in tables while the qualitative data was used to explain and explore qualitative data in order to support the quantitative discussion when necessary. The study found that the headteachers were able to manage individuals and lead effective teams, provide feedback to teachers about how to improve instruction, encourage monitoring of pupils and exercises by the teachers, and carefully monitor/evaluate implementation of school improvement plans. It also found that, headteachers played massive role in working with the communities to improve teaching and learning in Tano North Municipality. It was revealed that, the headteachers ensured that all systems and resources, including financial, human and environmental resources, are used efficiently and effectively to achieve the school’s goals, develop a well-defined vision, mission and goal with teachers. The study recommended that, headteachers should partner cooperate organisations in the Municipality to enlist their support for holistic teaching and learning in the Municipality Furthermore, headteachers can liaise with the Tano North Educational Directorate and other stakeholders of education to ensure rapid and adequate supply of resources to the schools, as it makes the teaching and learning improves in these schools more enhanced for better BECE outcome. In addition, orientation and regular in-service education and training (INSET) for both newly posted teachers and others should be a permanent feature of the teaching and learning process to register effectiveness and efficiency in the management and administration of basic schools in the Tano North Municipality.