Challenges head teachers face in managing staff in basic schools at Atwima Kwanwoma District of Ashanti Region

Abstract

The study was conducted to investigate challenges basic school head teachers face in managing staff in basic schools at Atwima Kwanwoma District of Ashanti Region. The objectives of the study were to determine how head teachers manage basic schools, identify the challenges basic school head teachers face in managing staff and to adopt strategies to manage staff in basic schools at Atwima Kwanwoma District. Descriptive survey design using the quantitative approach was adopted for the study. The target population of the study consisted of all head teachers and assistant headteachers. The accessible population was 40 headteachers and assistants in 20 basic schools. Purposive sampling was used to select the schools and the 40 head teachers and assistants for the study. Questionnaire was used to collect data. The reliability test yielded Cronbach alpha of 0.78. Data were analyzed descriptively and presented using percentages and frequencies to answer all research questions. The study found that heads provided proper placement of staff and facilitated discipline of teachers and students. Challenges heads faced in managing staff were frequent absenteeism of teachers and teacher’s frequent lateness to School. Strategies to manage the challenges were the provision of career development training, and availability of teaching and learning materials for teachers to use in teaching. It is also concluded that because of the several challenges heads faced in managing staff militating against it, heads management of the schools would not be as effective as envisaged.