Effects of Decentralization on Secondary Schools in Ilala Municipality

This study explores the role of parents in decentralized secondary schools. It also assessed the factors within schools that contribute to students’ academic performance in Ilala district; mixed method research design was used to solicit information through structured questionnaire and interviews. The findings reveal that most of the parents are not aware of their responsibility in students’ secondary schooling although there are strong school boards which coordinate the efforts of parents and the schools. On the school based factors, the study found that there were many factors that schools could work on to raise students’ academic performance including to ensure schools are fenced, teachers have houses near the school and students have necessary amenities such as laboratories and libraries. The study proposed that parents should voluntarily supervise secondary children to learn at school and home, should provide material support and participate well to all school activities.