Thesis:

Influence of principal’s school management strategies on student truancy among public day secondary schools in Mwingi west sub county, Kitui county, Kenya

Student truancy is a significant challenge in Kenyan secondary schools, adversely affecting academic achievement and student behavior. This study investigated the influence of principals’ school management strategies on student truancy within public day secondary schools in Mwingi West Sub County, Kitui County, Kenya. The research specifically examines the role of principals' involvement in student leadership, motivation of peer counselors, utilization of student mentorship programs, and communication channels with students in addressing truancy. Guided by the Open Systems Theory and Assertive Discipline Theory, the study employs a descriptive research design to analyze the impact of these management strategies on truancy rates. The target population includes 36 principals, 180 class teachers, and 360 student leaders from 36 public day secondary schools in the region. A proportionate stratified sampling technique was used to select a sample of 17 principals, 54 class teachers, and 108 student leaders. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview guides, and the findings were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, particularly linear regression analysis, facilitated by SPSS Version 23. The study highlighted that the involvement of student leadership in school governance, when effectively managed by principals, can significantly reduce instances of truancy. Similarly, motivating peer counselors through recognition and rewards enhanced their role in mitigating absenteeism. The research also underscored the importance of mentorship programs in promoting student attendance, with mentorship contributing to students' personal development and academic commitment. Effective communication, particularly through direct engagement and feedback mechanisms, was identified as a critical factor in addressing student truancy. The study concluded that principals' management strategies play a pivotal role in shaping student behavior and reducing truancy. The findings suggest that enhancing student involvement in leadership, supporting peer counselors, expanding mentorship programs, and improving communication can create a more engaging school environment that curbs truancy. These insights are crucial for principals, educational administrators, and policymakers aiming to implement strategies that improve student attendance and overall academic outcomes.