Administrative roles of school heads in promoting improved academic performance of students, a case study of Amenfiman Senior High School

Abstract

This research was based on the fundamental reason that headmasters as leaders of second cycle schools play very influential roles that have both direct and indirect effect on academic performance. Literature review was carried out to explore the roles of school heads to help investigate how effective those roles are performed by headmasters and the challenges that confront them in executing those roles. The study area was Amenfiman Senior High School in the Wasa Amenfi East Municipality of the Western Region. Random sampling and purposive sampling were used in selecting the respondents. Four-Hundred and Nine (409) were sampled. The research employed both quantitative and qualitative method. Questionnaires and interview were used as data collection instruments. The research found that the head was effectively performing most of the administrative roles and was also guided by the vision and mission of the school. It was also revealed that the relationship between the headmaster and the wider community was not friendly and therefore did not make the school attract the support of the community members. The study found that there was lack of understanding and cooperation from the teachers, division among the teachers, recognition of those working hard, lack of support from community members and indiscipline were the challenges that impeded the effective performance of the head and as a result affected the academic performance of the students. It was therefore recommended among other things the school head must emphasize on the school mission and vision at all gatherings of stakeholders and also take a serious look at clinical supervision in the school.