Title:
IS SCHOOL CATEGORY A PREDICTOR OF PERFORMANCE CONTRACTING TARGETS IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN KAKAMEGA COUNTY, KENYA?

Authors:
Sharon Mwalo*, Ababu Geofrey Musera (PhD) and Akumu Paul Ogenga (PhD),Kenya

Abstract:
In order to improve the quality education in Kenya, Teachers Service Commission (TSC) embraced Result Based Management Approach, which involves Performance contracting for heads of primary and secondary schools. This study sought to establish the effect of school category on attainment of Performance Contracting targets by secondary school principals in Kakamega County. The study used descriptive survey research design. The study population comprised of 358 principals of public secondary schools in Kakamega County. Stratified, proportionate and random sampling techniques were used to select a sample of 126 respondents. Data was collected using a questionnaire form the school principals. Research instruments were validated using face and content validity while reliability was determined using spilt-half test technique at r= 0.8. Data was analyzed descriptively using means and percentages; and inferentially using multiple linear regression by aid of Stata version 12. Inferences were made at 0.05 level of significance on a two-tailed test. Data was analyzed and presented inform of tables. The findings of the study showed a statistically significant relationship between school category and in particular day schools with mean attainment of performance contracting targets in public secondary schools in Kakamega County. Day schools predicted – 5.475 points low in mean attainment of performance contracting targets. The findings conclude that school category affect the attainment of performance contracting targets.