GRIMES, PATRICIA HOLIAN.

This study was undertaken to determine the status of school-based management in ten Florida school districts that received School Management Improvement Grants. A literature search was conducted to determine those characteristics indicative of school-based management, fifteen hypotheses were formulated, and two questionnaires were developed. One questionnaire was a guide for interviews, and the second was sent to school-based administrators, teachers, and advisory committee members in the districts studied. A total of 400 persons participated. Analyses of the data received indicated significant differences in the degree to which the characteristics' presence were observed when responses were grouped according to the respondents' districts. This was noted in all areas except the principal's flexibility to transfer funds. When responses were grouped according to the positions of the respondents, significant differences were observed in all areas except support services, determination of staff needs, establishment of school advisory committees, and their participation in making periodic reports. Differences in perceptions were noted in the areas of support services, staff needs, staff recommendations, staff development, school advisory committees, and the staff's ability to requisition materials. The research led to these recommendations: (1) The lack of research available concerning tangible results from implementation of school-based management indicates a need for studies in this area. (2) Education should be provided for all groups involved to improve their understanding of the concept. (3) Education, in preparation for the delegation and assumption of responsibility, should be provided. (4) The district staff should be more sensitive to the support services required by the schools. (5) More authority should be given to the principal in determining his staff needs and selecting his staff, with in-service training as needed. (6) Principals, with their staffs, should be given assistance in determining their staff development needs. (7) The establishment of advisory committees at each school should be mandated by the State Legislature. (8) Education should be provided to help members understand their roles and meet their responsibilities. (9) Present budgeting procedures should be reexamined and more research undertaken. If changes are indicated, an educational program to prepare those involved should be initiated. (10) Further research, using a control group, should be conducted.