School Officials Research Articles

A school-based food and nutrition education intervention increases nutrition-related knowledge and fruit consumption among primary school children in northern Ghana

BackgroundProviding children with the opportunity to learn about nutrition is critical in helping them establish a healthy lifestyle and eating behaviours that would remain with them till adulthood. We determined the effect of a school-based food and nutrition education (SFNE) intervention on the nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes, dietary habits, physical activity levels and the anthropometric indices (BMI-for-age z scores, %Body fat and waist circumference) of school-age children in northern Ghana.MethodsFollowing a controlled before-and-after study design, we recruited school-age children in primary 4 and 5 from public and private schools and assigned them non-randomly to intervention and control groups (4 schools total). A SFNE intervention called ‘Eat Healthy, Grow Healthy (EHGH)’ was implemented in intervention schools. Components of the intervention included children, teachers, school officials, and the school environment. Nutrition education didactic sessions, active discussions, nutrition games, charades, art work, and physical activity sessions were among the teaching and learning activities implemented. At 0 and 6 months, primary (anthropometry) and secondary (fruit, vegetable, and breakfast consumption) outcomes were obtained.ResultsMean BMI-for-age z-scores did not differ significantly between intervention and control groups (F1,261 = 0.45, P = 0.503, η2 = 0.01). However, significantly greater nutrition-related knowledge scores were recorded in the intervention group than in the control group at post-intervention (M = 6.07 SD = 2.17 vs. M = 5.22 SD = 1.92; p = 0.002). Mean number of days intervention children consumed fruits differed across time (F1, 263 = 33.04, p = 0.002, η2 = 0.04) but not between the control and intervention groups (F1, 263 = 0.28, p = 0.60, η2 = 0.00).ConclusionsThe EHGH intervention had positive effects on the nutrition-related knowledge and the consumption of fruits among children although it did not impact their anthropometric indices.

New Orleans school meal programs during the COVID-19 pandemic: challenges and innovations identified through qualitative interviews

BackgroundSchool meal programs are critical to reducing childhood food insecurity. This study identified challenges and innovations in school meal service in a disaggregated charter school system during COVID-19 in New Orleans, Louisiana.MethodsSemi-structured qualitative key informant interviews were conducted with school officials and school food providers. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded. Using an immersion-crystallization approach, patterns were identified.ResultsNine participants described challenges and solutions/innovations in food service focused around five themes: food service, procurement and costs, staffing, communication and outreach, and collaborations and partnerships. Participants faced challenges in meal service logistics, procuring food and supplies, staffing shortages, timely communication, lack of city-wide coordination, and the need to rapidly shift operations due to an evolving pandemic. While the disaggregated system created challenges in a city-wide response, the decentralized system along with policy changes offered opportunities for flexibility and innovation in meal programs through new partnership and coordination between schools and community, development of new processes for food service and procurement, and diverse modes of communication.ConclusionThese findings add to the understanding of challenges faced and innovations implemented to continue school meal programs in a disaggregated school system. Collaboration with community organizations, leveraging resources, coordinated communication, and policies allowing for flexibility were key to response and should be encouraged to build capacity and resiliency in emergencies. In future city-wide emergency preparedness planning efforts, school leaders and food providers should be included in the planning to ensure continued equitable food access for students.

Study of The Concept of Vocational Guidance and Counseling in Vocational Schools

The concept of vocational guidance and counseling in vocational high schools (SMK) plays a crucial role in shaping the future of students. A recent study conducted at SMKS Teknologi YPL Lirik aimed to explore the general overview of guidance and counseling implementation, the steps taken by school principals and teachers, and the challenges faced in this aspect. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, the researchers directly collected data through interviews, documentation, and involving key stakeholders such as the school principal, vice principal of student affairs, subject teachers, class advisors, guidance counselors, and students. The gathered data was then analyzed through a process of reduction and interpreted qualitatively to draw conclusions. According to the interviews conducted with school officials, it was revealed that the current guidance and counseling practices at SMKS Teknologi YPL Lirik are inadequate. This is evident from the students' behavior, which tends to be naughty or undisciplined due to family or community environmental factors. To achieve holistic character education through guidance and counseling, the school must establish good cooperation with parents, maintain direct communication with them in case of any issues at school, and find solutions collaboratively to foster positive character growth in both the family and school environments. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the importance of enhancing guidance and counseling practices in vocational high schools to better support students in their personal and academic development. By addressing challenges and strengthening collaboration between school stakeholders, SMKS Teknologi YPL Lirik can create a more conducive environment for students to thrive and succeed in their vocational endeavors.

Efektivitas Prestasi Belajar Pendidikan Agama Islam Dalam Penerapan Strategi Pembelajaran Berbasis Paikem Guna Mewujudkan Merdeka Belajar

This study aims to determine the development of education in Indonesia has experienced significant progress, especially in the field of Islamic education. The government has taken steps to develop the sector, including regulations and the National Curriculum to set national education standards in Indonesia. The National Curriculum focuses on developing skills and character that can create young people based on the PAIKEM (Active, Innovative, Creative, Effective, and Fun) approach. This research focuses on SD Negeri Dukuh 02 Mojolaban, a formal school located in Geblug, Mojolaban District, Sukoharjo Regency, Central Java Province. The methodology of this study included qualitative research, which aimed to collect data on the quality and performance of Islamic education in schools. This method includes the collection of documentation data and physical data, as well as the collection of qualitative data through interviews with school officials, academics, and teachers. Observational data collection includes observation of the school environment, student participation, student activities, learning process, and what factors need to be considered when collecting data. The implementation of the PAIKEM strategy at SD Negeri Dukuh 02 Mojolaban aims to achieve student achievement. The PAIKEM strategy focuses on creating a conducive learning environment that encourages students to excel in learning.

Critical Leadership of School Administrators Under the Office of Primary and Secondary Education Service Area in Loei Province

The objective of this research is 1) to study the level of critical leadership of school administrators according to the opinions of teachers under the Office of Primary and Secondary Educational Service Area in Loei Province, and 2) to compare the level of critical leadership of school administrators according to the opinions of teachers under the Primary and Secondary Educational Service Area Office in Loei Province, classified by education, affiliation, and work experience. Which the population includes Teachers under the Primary and Secondary Educational Service Area Office in Loei Province for the academic year 2022 total 3,893 people, and the sample group used in this study was teachers in schools under the Primary and Secondary Educational Service Area Office in Loei Province in the academic year 2022, totaling 354 people. The instrument used in the study was a questionnaire regarding critical leadership characteristics of school administrators, consisting of 40 questions. There is a consistency between the questions and the objective is between 0.60-1.00 with the entire confidence value being 0.982. Statistics used in research namely mean, standard deviation, t-test, analysis of one-way variance, and pairwise mean differences were tested using Scheffe's method. Finding were as follows: 1) the Primary and Secondary Educational Service Area Office in Loei Province has a high degree of critical leadership in its overall management of school administrators, when considering each aspect, it was found that it was at a high level in every aspect, arranged from highest to lowest average as follows; cultural diversity, change, empowerment, and ethics, and 2) the findings of comparing teachers' perceptions of the critical leadership of school officials under the Primary and Secondary Educational Service Area Offices in Loei Province, classified by educational level, affiliation, and work experience, are similar in terms of the overall situation as well as income.

The Influence of Gender Stereotype on the Career Aspirations in Technology and Livelihood

This study examines the intricate relationship between gender stereotypes and career aspirations among Grade 8 students in the context of Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE). Employing a descriptive correlational research design, data was collected through a survey instrument adapted from validated scales. The extent of gender stereotypes was assessed across various dimensions, including occupational segregation, role expectations, differential treatment in education, media representations, and limited career aspirations. Additionally, students' career aspirations were explored concerning perceived suitability of careers, confidence in pursuing TLE careers, and perceptions of opportunities. Statistical analyses revealed a significant negative correlation between gender stereotypes and career aspirations, signifying the pervasive impact of these stereotypes on students' career inclinations. Furthermore, regression analyses identified indicators of gender stereotypes that significantly influence career aspirations. The implications of these findings resonate across educational stakeholders. School officials, educators, and students can utilize these insights to foster inclusive learning environments that challenge gender norms and promote diverse career paths in TLE. This study contributes to the existing literature by empirically illuminating the connections between gender stereotypes and career aspirations, offering a foundation for informed policy-making and targeted interventions.

Headgear use in girls' lacrosse-stakeholders not ready for change.

Mandating headgear for field players in girls' lacrosse to reduce head injuries, including concussion, has been heavily debated. However, research regarding the need and effectiveness of mandated headgear use in girls' lacrosse is still developing. Therefore, this qualitative study aimed to identify the need for and barriers to the development of mandated headgear use policies in girls' lacrosse in Ohio. We conducted six virtual focus groups, three with concussion experts (clinicians and researchers) and three with girls' lacrosse stakeholders (high school players, parents, coaches, and officials). A focus group guide was developed to explore study participants' perceptions and opinions on concussion in girls' lacrosse, headgear use among players, and policies and policy development related to headgear use or a headgear mandate. We developed the codebook using an inductive and iterative approach based on focus group transcripts and used ATLAS.TI to code and analyze the transcript data. Concussion experts and stakeholders understood the potential consequences of concussion but did not perceive concussion as a pervasive problem in girls' lacrosse. The prevention of head and facial injuries was regarded as a potential benefit of headgear use. However, stakeholders expressed that the myriad of arguments discussed opposing mandated headgear use including increased aggressive play and/or targeting, concerns over changes in the game, and cost strongly outweighed the benefits. Finally, both concussion experts and stakeholders identified multiple organizations, including USA Lacrosse, who could act as facilitators and/or barriers to developing, enacting, and implementing headgear policies. Concussion experts and stakeholders identified possible reasons for headgear use related to injury prevention but also identified several important barriers to the development of a headgear mandate for girls' lacrosse in Ohio.

Analisis Manfaat Pendidikan Inklusi pada Anak Berkebutuhan Khusus (ABK) di Pendidikan Sekolah Dasar

This research aims to analyze inclusive education as an important focus in the context of educational development in Indonesia. This article explains the implementation and benefits of inclusive education in elementary schools. The research method used is qualitative using primary and secondary data. The results and discussion of this research highlight the benefits of an inclusive environment for children with special needs, the important role of school principals in communication and coordination, the benefits for special and general students, as well as the importance of collaboration between teachers and other school officials. In addition, this article emphasizes that inclusive education programs help children to be independent in daily life and improve their academic abilities, as well as providing opportunities for them to make decisions according to their talents and interests.

The Important Role of Inclusive Schools in Accepting Children with Special Needs in Cluster 2, Cibinong District, Bogor

Inclusive schools are places where children with special needs can learn together with other regular children. However, children with special needs are still accompanied by accompanying teachers during teaching and learning activities. The learning system, teaching, curriculum, facilities and infrastructure, as well as the assessment system in inclusive schools will accommodate the needs of children with special needs, so that they can adapt and receive the best possible education. Children with special needs are children who experience delays in development, have medical conditions, mental conditions, and/or certain congenital conditions. They require special attention and handling in order to reach their potential. Children with special needs do not mean they are not smart, talented or incapable. It's just that they have special challenges that most normal children don't face. A School Cluster is an institution/organization as a center for the development of surrounding elementary schools which has the aim of improving the quality of education. The aim of this research is to find out about inclusive schools in accepting children with special needs, especially in cluster 2, Cibinong District, Bogor Regency. The research method used was interviews with school officials, especially school principals, in accepting children with special needs at their school. Interview is a data collection technique through a one-way verbal question and answer process, meaning that questions come from the person interviewing and answers are given by the interviewee.

Book Censorship in Public Schools: Examining Florida HB 1467 (2022)

Several pieces of legislation have sprung up in recent years in Florida aiming to restrict public school library books and curricular materials. Notably, this coincides with other state legislative moves to restrict what students read and learn in school with partisan purposes. Library associations have reported that nationally, removed books disproportionately contain LGBTQ and racial minority themes. One law at the heart of these restrictions, Florida HB 1467 (2022), empowers community members to challenge and remove public school books and adds bureaucratic obstacles to the access of previously allowable materials. The vague and broad language of the Florida law leads to erratic application by school districts across the state, resulting in the suppression of protected speech. This article examines a key constitutional tension: Under what circumstances does the students’ right to receive information under the First Amendment outweigh school officials’ authority, and, by extension, parental authority over local education under the Tenth Amendment? The U.S. Supreme Court in Board of Education, Island Trees Union Free School District v. Pico (1982) offers one answer, holding that political orthodoxy is an unacceptable rationale for removal, but pervasive vulgarity and educational unsuitability are acceptable. These three standards are useful, yet entangle in ways Pico is not fully suited to address. This article argues HB 1467 (2022) is unconstitutional under the political orthodoxy Pico standard, strict scrutiny analysis of content-based regulations, and the vagueness and overbreadth doctrines of the 1st Amendment.

Work-life balance and job satisfaction among faculty in selected nursing schools in Sulu

Balancing one’s life with all of the responsibilities they have and be able to find joy in it is one of the best things that one can have in life. However, the ideal concept of work and life balance is not achieved due to certain factors that have a great impact in real life experience. Using the quantitative descriptive method, this study aims to assess the work life balance and job satisfaction among faculty members selected from nursing schools in Sulu. The findings revealed that they have a positive view with regards to the concept of work life balance, but uncertain in terms of workload and leave policies. They also have a positive outcome with the concept of job satisfaction. Lastly, it was also found out that work life balance played a big role in improving the job satisfaction of faculty members in nursing schools. These findings suggest that school administrators shall formulate better policies and guidelines among faculty members in a way to strategize the assignment of workloads. Moreover, an open communication among faculty and other school officials shall happen to determine the expectations and set the standards that will meet the school’s improvement while not compromising the well being of the teaching force.

Pelatihan Tata Tulis Persuratan Tenaga Administrasi Sekolah di SMA Negeri 1 Sembawa, Banyuasin

The development of the world of education requires that teachers and school administration staff are skilled at writing well and correctly. Correspondence writing is part of a series of writing activities and cannot be separated from a series of activities at school. To write and reply to incoming letters of course requires the competence of a school administration staff. In order to be professional, of course school administration staff must understand how to write letters well and correctly. This of course requires training in how to write good and correct correspondence, both in terms of effective sentence writing and good letter language. The theme of this training is how to write good and correct correspondence. This activity is expected to improve the understanding and skills of school officials, in this case administrative staff, in writing correspondence at school.

Psychological Distress and Students’ Academic Achievement in the Colleges of Education: Does Gender Matter?

Background: Students are exposed to a wide range of potentially stressful situations which could negatively affect their academic achievement and their health. The study examined the influence of psychological distress on students’ academic achievement in the Colleges of Education (CoE) in Ghana. Methods: Using descriptive cross-sectional survey design, 325 students were selected from six CoE using a multi-stage sampling procedure. Primary data was gathered using DASS-21 and analysed via SEM, Moderation analysis and independent sample t-test. Results: The study discovered that psychological distress (i.e., depression, anxiety, and stress) negatively significantly predicted the academic achievement of college students. Specifically, academic anxiety and stress has a negative influence on students’ academic achievement. However, gender does not moderate the relationship between psychological distress and academic achievement of the students. There was a significant gender difference in the psychological distress of students. Female students experienced a high level of anxiety and stress compared to male students. There was no gender difference in depression among students. Conclusion: School officials and teachers should intensify their academic interventions, workshops, and counselling to help reduce the psychological distress among students to improve mental health for academic excellence. Novelty: Study found that psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, and stress, negatively predicts the academic achievement of college students in Ghana, highlighting the need for academic interventions and counseling to improve students' mental health and academic performance.

Difficulty of the Learners and the Management Measures in Cebuano-Visayan Language as Medium of Instruction

Teachers need help teaching subjects in MTB-MLE and other subjects because the language used is Cebuano. This has an impact on learning activities that could be more optimal. This study aims to analyze the difficulties faced by grade 3 students in implementing Cebuano-Visayan teaching and assess the management actions taken by school administrators and teachers. This research uses a descriptive research design. Data was collected using purposive sampling from 17 school administrators, 30 teachers, and 253 students. Data collection methods use observation and questionnaires. The arithmetic mean is used as a statistical tool. The research results show that school administrators often undertake various management actions to facilitate the implementation of Cebuano-Visayan. Speaking and grammar skills were moderately complex, while reading, comprehension, and vocabulary skills were identified as the most challenging for Grade 3 students. This research revealed that effective and adequate management strategies contribute to the learning difficulties encountered in Cebuano teaching Visayan. Despite efforts by school officials and teachers to address this situation, it continues and even worsens. Therefore, school leaders are advised to re-evaluate their school curricula and thoroughly assess the inclusion of the Cebuano-Visayan language in the lower elementary grades (Grades 1-3) to identify actual problems and provide appropriate interventions and practical solutions.

Out of the Classroom Context: Narratives of Licensed Teachers Assigned to School Offices

This study explored the out-of-the-classroom experiences of licensed teachers working in school offices. Eight (8) office workers were also licensed teachers who participated in the study coming from Poblacion Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental. This study made use of a phenomenological approach to extract the ideas of the teacher participants. The in- depth interview was employed to gather some information as regards their respective experiences. Using the thematic analysis, the following themes emerged about the experiences of the participants: the experiences of the licensed teachers working in offices were, working with loads of paper, being flexible with office work, and beating office deadlines. The coping mechanisms of the teachers were, embracing office realities, taking short breaks for relaxation, and seeking assistance from senior workers. The insights of the participants delved into two factors: Providing part- time jobs to licensed teachers and attending office- related training or seminars. For the college president or school heads to be more observant of the performance of their office workers. They should ensure that the office workers are performing their assigned tasks based on the expected results. The licensed teachers working in various school offices may be more responsive to the needs of their clientele.

Perceptions of dengue risk and acceptability of a dengue vaccine in residents of Puerto Rico

ABSTRACT Dengvaxia is the first dengue vaccine recommended in the United States (U.S.). It is recommended for children aged 9–16 y with laboratory-confirmed previous dengue infection and living in areas where dengue is endemic. We conducted focus groups with parents and in-depth interviews with key informants (i.e. practicing pediatricians, physicians from immunization clinics, university researchers, and school officials) in Puerto Rico (P.R.) to examine acceptability, barriers, and motivators to vaccinate with Dengvaxia. We also carried out informal meetings and semi-structured interviews to evaluate key messages and educational materials with pediatricians and parents. Barriers to vaccination included lack of information, distrust toward new vaccines, vaccine side effects and risks, and high cost of/lack of insurance coverage for laboratory tests and vaccines. Motivators included clear information about the vaccine, a desire to prevent future dengue infections, the experience of a previous dengue infection or awareness of dengue fatality, vaccine and laboratory tests covered by health insurance, availability of rapid test results and vaccine appointments. School officials and parents agreed parents would pay a deductible of $5–20 for Dengvaxia. For vaccine information dissemination, parents preferred an educational campaign through traditional media and social media, and one-on-one counseling of parents by healthcare providers. Education about this vaccine to healthcare providers will help them answer parents’ questions. Dengvaxia acceptability in P.R. will increase by addressing motivators and barriers to vaccination and by disseminating vaccine information in plain language through spokespersons from health institutions in P.R.

FERPA and transcript disclosures

Just as we finished discussing the role of coaches as school officials and their sometimes unique experiences related to FERPA disclosures, a registrar recently asked me for my opinion on a situation involving a coach. Although I had not planned a segue to transcript disclosures involving a coach, it seemed like a good pretext to introduce a common type of disclosure of education records.

Analysis of PPL Implementation in The Prajabatan PPG Program In The Field of Sociology Studies At SMA Negeri 1 Pontianak

This research aims to identify the effectiveness of implementing Field Experience Practices (PPL) in developing the competency of Pre-Service Teacher Professional Education Program (PPG) students at SMA Negeri 1 Pontianak. The relevance of this research lies in its contribution to improving the quality of learning in schools and preparing Pre-Service PPG students to become competent teachers and ready to face the dynamics of the world of education. This research method uses a descriptive qualitative approach through data collection techniques through observation, interviews, and document analysis. The research population was PPL PPG students in the field of Sociology studies at SMA Negeri 1 Pontianak, the research informants were 3 students. Effective PPL allows students to develop analytical, reflective skills and teacher identity through field interaction, observation and reflection. Even though they face obstacles such as limited schedules, effective communication between students and the school can overcome them. PPL plays an important role in forming competent and professional teachers in the future. Thus, this research provides recommendations for increasing the effectiveness of PPL implementation, including by optimizing communication between students and school officials, arranging flexible schedules, and increasing the availability of facilities at schools. By overcoming these obstacles, it is hoped that the implementation of PPL can run more effectively and efficiently so that students can develop competence as prospective teachers who are ready to face the dynamics of the world of education.

FERPA and coaches 2

Are coaches school officials? Although the answer can vary from college to college, the FERPA regulations require each college, in its annual FERPA notification to students, to identify who are school officials at their institution. That's where we left it last month.

Alumni association’s participation in plant maintenance for effective implementation of universal basic education (UBE) programme in Kogi state

PurposeThe level of deterioration of educational facilities, such as leaking classroom roofs, inadequate good seats, obsolete offices, broken shutters and doors, outdated school buildings, power plants and office equipment like ICT media, laboratories, offices and workshops, despite the involvement of Alumni association in the maintenance of educational facilities for the effective actualization of school objectives was a worrisome nightmare in Kogi state. This, therefore, prompted the researchers to explore the Alumni’s participation in plant maintenance for effective implementation of the universal basic education (UBE) programme in public junior secondary schools in Kogi state. The purpose of this study was guided by the research question which stated that to what extent does the Alumni Association participate in plant maintenance for effective implementation of the UBE programme in public junior secondary schools in Kogi state?Design/methodology/approachA quantitative research approach using a descriptive survey was adopted for the study. The sample was drawn using a proportionate stratified sampling technique comprising 387 participants which consisted of 191 (49%) urban junior secondary school principals and 196 (51%) rural principals in selected UBE junior secondary schools. Alumni’s Participation in Plant Maintenance Questionnaire was used as an instrument for data collection. The data were analysed with the aid of mean and standard deviation for the research question and z-test statistics at 0.05 level of significance and the value of z-crit. of 1.96 was used to determine the rejection or otherwise of the hypotheses.FindingsThe descriptive analysis revealed that the average mean set of 2.64 pointed to the fact that the respondents averagely agreed that there was a high extent to which Alumni participate in plant maintenance in urban than rural areas for effective implementation of the UBE programme in public junior secondary schools in Kogi state. This indicates that Alumni contribute to the management of UBE schools in Kogi state, especially in the areas of funding, infrastructural facilities, discipline, politics and quality control. This finding also shows that the contributions of the alumni to educational institutions are still unclear if they have made contributions to education in some areas and none in other areas making their relevance to plant maintenance unclear.Research limitations/implicationsIn terms of practical implications, the study has contributed to knowledge in that it is the first of this form of a study carried out in Kogi state, and as such the findings of the research will make contributions to the physique of information on plant maintenance for the profitable implementation of the UBE programme in Kogi state. Besides, the degree of plant preservation for the implementation of the UBE programme among applicable stakeholders in Kogi state is nevertheless at a low extent.Originality/valueResearchers have conducted studies that show how non-state Alumni members contribute to the administration of education across different states. Some of these studies revealed that Alumni members have assisted schools in the provision of teaching and learning materials at the senior secondary or tertiary education level. There are no sufficient studies to show how these Alumni members have contributed to the implementation of the free education programme, especially in public junior secondary schools in Kogi state and this is the gap this study intends to fill.