THE ROLE OF SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY COLLABORATION IN TACKLING STUDENTS’ DISCIPLINARY PROBLEMS IN SELECTED GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOLS OFFA ZONE WOREDA IN WOLAITA

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to assess the role of school and community collaboration in tackling students’ disciplinary problems. The study employed descriptive survey design and mixed research method. Data was gathered from the sample respondents through questionnaire, interview and document analysis. Two types of questionnaire were prepared. One for teachers and students representatives and the second oneisforPTSA and KETB. Statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean and one-sample t- test were used during analysis by SPSS software version 20. The participants selected in random sampling which is in lottery system were members of monitors and class room teachers were selected by using availability sampling. Principals, PTSA and KETB were selected using availability sampling. The findings of the study were: disciplinary problems which occur most frequently were failure to do home works and assignment, absenteeism, late coming, poor attention and participation, the number of student in makeup and tutorial is low. Factors related to principals were less commitment, lack of consistency in applying rules, do not participate students during setting of rules. Factors related to community (out-school factors) were pool (Kerembula) houses, “Chat” and alcohol drinking houses. The current school-community collaboration in tackling students’ disciplinary problem is found at low stage. Factors hindering community involvement: lack of information and invitation from school lack of commitment for schools issues, lack of awareness, undermining their contribution, poor economic- social status. Based on the findings thefollowing recommendations were forwarded: principals, PTSA and KETB should implement a wide range of school-based programs, frequent meetings in which students, parents and community members participate to minimize the mentioned problems. Parents should shape their children in good discipline from early stage of their