Abstract

This cross-sectional survey investigates the attitudes, opinions, and experiences of teachers,
students, and head teachers regarding school policies' influence on student discipline in Fort
Portal Municipality's secondary schools, Kabalore District. The study's objective is to identify
the effects of school policies, causes of student indiscipline, and the role of school
administration in shaping discipline. A sample size of 210 respondents was selected using
purposive and random sampling techniques. Data collection involved structured
questionnaires and face-to-face interviews, employing both primary and secondary data
sources. Statistical analysis using SPSS and qualitative descriptive analysis revealed
intriguing insights. A comprehensive survey encompassing the distribution of respondents
by sex, marital status, and age bracket was conducted, revealing intriguing demographic
trends. A robust exploration was undertaken to discern the influence of school policies on
student discipline, eliciting responses from diverse stakeholders including teachers, head
teachers, students, PTA members, and Board of Governors. The findings underscore the
significant influence of school policies, with identified factors including Universal secondary
education, Compulsory Science subjects, trained teachers, games and sports, vocational
subjects, and specific registration criteria for academic progression. Moreover, the research
delved into the underlying causes of student indiscipline, highlighting pivotal issues such as
domestic violence, heredity, peer influence, lenient disciplinary measures, dearth of positive
role models, and cultural influences. These insights underline the complex interplay of
societal factors impacting student conduct. Additionally, the study expounded on the effects
of school administration strategies on student discipline, emphasizing the critical role
played by rule-setting, guidance and counseling, supervision, parental involvement,
sensitization programs, and robust administrative structures in fostering a disciplined
academic environment. The comprehensive analysis of these diverse dimensions unveils the
intricate landscape influencing student behavior in secondary schools, suggesting the need
for nuanced policy interventions and administrative strategies to cultivate a conducive
environment for positive student conduct and academic excellence.
Keywords: School policies, student discipline, secondary schools, cross-sectional survey,
attitudes, causes of indiscipline, school administration