Strategic Planning in Public Secondary Schools and Its Effect on Academic Outcomes in Cross River State

This study investigates the practice of strategic planning in public secondary schools and its relationship to academic outcomes in Cross River State, South South Nigeria. Strategic planning, including mission articulation, needs analysis, goal setting, and performance monitoring, is increasingly recognised as a tool for improving school effectiveness, yet its application in Nigerian public secondary schools remains embryonic. The study employs a descriptive survey design, engaging 240 principals, vice principals, and teachers from schools in Calabar South, Abi, and Boki local government areas. Data were collected using a school strategic planning practice questionnaire and academic outcome records from the National Examinations Council and West African Senior School Certificate Examination. Pearson correlation and regression analysis were applied. The study draws on Kaplan and Norton's Balanced Scorecard framework adapted for schools and the School Improvement Planning Model. It examines awareness of strategic planning concepts, current planning practices, stakeholder involvement in plan development, and the alignment of school activities with stated goals. Findings are anticipated to show a significant positive relationship between structured strategic planning practice and examination performance outcomes. Recommendations target the Cross River State Secondary Education Management Board on introducing mandatory strategic planning training for principals and institutionalising school improvement plans as annual governance requirements. The study contributes management evidence for building planning capacity in South South Nigerian secondary schools. Keywords: strategic planning, academic outcomes, secondary schools, Cross River State, school improvement