Dear all,
Why do some schools perform better than others? The short answer is the extent to which they utilised and managed their resources.
For the teaching and non-teaching staff, I would ensure that there are clear job descriptions for all. The staff should be monitored regularly to see to it that they are all doing what is expected. There shall be a system in place to recognise and reward outstanding performance. For instance, if a teacher participates in a school activity or does something exemplary, the Head teacher or his designate would write a kudos for that teacher and post it at a designated place, where everyone would see it. That teacher would feel elated. At the end of each term, the members of staff with the highest kudos would be presented with a certificate, praised during a PTA meeting or rewarded in another manner. Members of staff who fall short of expectation are counselled, monitored and given the necessary support.
The teaching resources would be used efficiently and effectively. All materials that could be delegated, would be assigned to willing and competent staff. The SMT shall monitor the usage and condition of all school materials periodically. There shall be a maintenance plan to ensure that resources needing maintenance are cared for without much delay.
The ancillary staff shall also be monitored and given necessary support just like the teaching staff.
The school funds would be used in the best interest of the school, using the principles of accountability and transparency.
During lessons there shall be spot-checking to ensure teachers do not ignore their pupils due to social media. No community members shall be allowed to be interrupting teachers during lessons. When I reported to the school newly, every now and then a community member would work into a class with a form to be filled. Teachers would stop their lessons and fill those forms. sometimes, they would ask teachers to write letters or charge cell phones for them. I had to stop all that gently, but firmly.
I discourage people who try to form idle chat groups in the school. Community members are free to visit the school, but those visits should not be abused by constantly interrupting teachers during lessons.
The headteacher needs to be good at lobbying for resources for the school. When most of the resources are available and well managed, the expected outcome is good results.
Kind regards,
Amadou Jallow