THE ROLE OF BOARD OF GOVERNORS IN IMPROVING SCHOOL PERFORMANCE IN SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN WESTERN RURAL AREA DISTRICT,SIERRA LEONE.

Abstract This study aimed to examine the role of Boards of Governors in improving the performance of senior secondary schools in the Western Rural District. The objectives of the study were to: examine the roles of Board of Governors in the Recruitment of Staff, determine the Role of Board of Governors in School Financial Management, assess the performance of Board of Governors in School Discipline,find out the Role of the Board of Governors in School Curriculum and Instruction Management.A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, integrating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and document analysis, and analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. The study revealed that school boards play a critical role in managing school finances, infrastructure, and discipline. However, it also found that boards face several challenges, including staff selection and recruitment, retention, and supervision of school property. Additional challenges include a limited financial base, role conflicts, and external interference. The study recommends that boards budget within available resources, undertake capacity-building initiatives, ensure merit-based recruitment, and strengthen the school’s financial base through networking. The Ministry of Education should reassess the formation of school boards and provide oversight and guidance on their roles. Furthermore, it is recommended that a regional or district-level training program be implemented to provide board members with at least a week of training on facilitating quality education in schools. Keywords: Role, Board of Governors, Improving, School Performance, Senior Secondary Schools,Western Rural ,Sierra Leone.