Perceived Parental Engagement in Improving Students' Academic Achievement in Sululta Sub-city Secondary Schools of Shaggar City Administration, Oromia Regional State

The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the level of perceived parental engagement in improving students' academic achievement in secondary schools in Sululta Sub-City, Shaggar City administration. In the study, a mixed research approach and descriptive research design were used. Questionnaire, key informant interview, and document review were used as data gathering tools. A stratified simple random sampling technique was employed to select 65 teachers and 307 students. In addition, 4 principals and 28 PTA members were taken purposively. Quantitative data was analyzed by using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The findings of the study revealed that the overall parental engagement was at a low level in school activities and decision-making. However, parents moderately encouraged their children to achieve satisfactory results, stay focused, and develop positive attitudes toward education. Teachers reported low levels of principal involvement in engaging parents in education and school development initiatives. Finally, it was suggested that the provision of consecutive training programs for parents by schools and education bureaus mainly focus on supporting parents in their children's education, making continuous follow-ups, involving parents in school decision-making, strengthening the student council, and creating a strong relationship between the school and the community.