PRINCIPLES OF SCHOOL-BASED MANAGEMENT: STATE OF THE PRACTICE IN FLORIDA ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

The problem examined in this study was to determine the extent to which elementary school principals were exhibiting a commitment toward the practices of school-based management. The research of the literature reflected a paucity of evidence related to the implementation of school-based management. Florida schools have been directed toward school-based management as a result of a legislative mandate in an effort to bring about accountability at the local school level. The literature reflected a void in revealing the state of the practice in elementary schools. The sample population of this study consisted of 311 Florida elementary school principals selected at random from those listed in the Florida Education Directory 1980-81. Two hundred forty-two of those responded, forming the survey sample. The survey instrument was developed by the Planning, Research and Evaluation Department of the State of Florida, Department of Education, in 1976. The areas covered by the survey included instruction, support services, parental involvement, management and finance. The conclusions were as follows: (1) About half of the elementary school principals were practicing school-based management. (2) Principals made the majority of decisions at the school level. (3) There was no significant difference in implementation of school-based management practices and geographical location. (4) Principals made the majority of management decisions compared to district level personnel and shared decision-making. (5) Parent Advisory Councils participated at a moderate level in all schools. (6) There was no evidence to suggest that implementation of school-based management was a function of (a) chronological age, (b) gender, (c) recency of Administration/Supervision certification, or (d) years of experience as a principal.