The Role of Boards of Management as a Determinant of Pupils’ Academic Performance in Public Primary Schools in Marani Sub-County, Kenya.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore onthe role of boards of management (BoM) as a determinant of pupils’ academic performance in public primary schools in Marani Sub-County, Kenya. The objectives of this study were to find out the role played by BoM and establish influence of role of BoM on pupils’ academic performance in public primary schools in Marani Sub-County. The study useddescriptive surveydesign. The target population was 317 Standard Eight teachers, 64 head teachers and 64 Boards of Management chairpersons in 64 public primary schools. Simple random sampling technique was used to select schools and categories of respondents. The sample size was 95 Standard Eight teachers, 19 head teachers, and 19 BoM chairpersons which represented 30% of the target population. Questionnaire and interview schedule were used to collect data from the teachers, head teachers and BoM chairpersons. Document analysis was to help in extracting KCPE examination mean scores of pupils. Quantitative data was analyzed using frequencies, percentages and means while qualitative data was analysed and interpreted based on themes derived from the study objectives. The study established that majority of schools’ BoM did not participate in matters of discipline, promote a culture of dialogue and democratic governance,undertake guidance and counseling. The study as wellfound out that inadequate execution of BoM role by the members negatively influenced pupils’ academic performance. The study therefore recommended that BoM should be fully involved in matters of discipline, guidance and counseling, and strive to instill a culture of dialogue and democratic governance in schools. BoM should also beencouraged undertake resource mobilization from various stakeholders in order to erect adequate physical facilities in schools.