SCHOOL PRINCIPALS’ ROLE IN THE CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN ATIBA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, OYO STATE

ABSTRACT This study investigated the school principals’ roles in the classroom management in public secondary schools within Atiba Local Government Area of Oyo State. Recognizing that effective classroom management is vital to academic success, the research explores how principals contribute to maintaining discipline, supporting teachers, and creating conducive learning environments. Using descriptive survey research comprising structured questionnaires with teachers, the study identified key leadership practices including instructional supervision, enforcement of school-wide discipline policies, teacher motivation, and resource mobilization. Findings revealed that principals who actively engage in instructional leadership and staff development foster better classroom control and higher teaching efficiency. Additionally, the study highlights that in schools faced with challenges such as overcrowded classrooms, inadequate facilities, and insufficient teaching materials, the role of the principal becomes even more critical. The study concluded that the principal’s leadership is a significant determinant of good classroom climate and overall school effectiveness. Based on the findings, recommendation were made that secondary school principals should ensure that teachers attend career advancement programmes, the government TESCOM should ensure that teachers’ welfare is focused and classroom discipline should be encourage by both teachers and school management. Key words: Classroom Management, Principal, Schools and Teachers