In my school i rely on the following records to help me make decision
Academic report: this is a record that show student performance on various subject area. It also determines how well was teaching and learning taking place. by so doing decision can be taken on areas that need improvement. stakeholders can be informed so as to get their input on the way forward.
Attendance record: this record tract pupils' attendance and it help the school to see the trend of student attendance. this record guide the school to take appropriate decision to mitigate truancy and dropouts.
Financial ledger: this the record that show the income and expenditure of the school. the school can use this advice stakeholders on the gaps of income and expenditure and put in place mechanism to generate funds to match with the current expenditure.
challenges we face as a school in organizing school record in our rural setting could be lack of digital apparatus and using nondurable materials. lack of storage facilities and accessibility when lost.
Digitalize record keeping can go a long way in helping school leaders do their work fast and easier. easy access and more confidential.
The best practice that i would recommend for other heads are:
proper record keeping and documentation
clear tone and accessible
To be updating records and be much confidential in some records.