The Professional Competencies of School Administrators for Supporting Children in Need of Protection in Schools

Children who have lost a parent or both parents for whatever reason may be defined as children who are in need of protection. Also, children in need of protection may encounter obstacles in life due to the breakdown of the family, financial problems and due to physical and mental health problems. The state of the country is responsible for supporting these children while providing resources for their healthy development. These responsibilities are fulfilled by the Turkish Social Service and Children Protection Institution. The aim of this study is to portray the situation of school administrators that serve in Yozgat in terms of the professional competencies which are required for dealing with the problems of children in need of protection. This qualitative study utilizes purposeful sampling. Open-ended questionnaires are used to collect the data. The sample of the study consists of 13 school administrators who work in different schools that children in need of protection attend within the academic year 2012-2013. The results of the study show that these children are labeled and excluded by their peers. They also socialize with mainly other children who are in need of protection. Because of the weak familial relations, these children experience problems with their lives. School administrators in high schools have little influence over vulnerable children. Although the school administrators are aware of the problems, they are not unable to find permanent solutions. In this light, school administrators in primary and high schools need to identify these children and their problems while recognizing the familial relations of vulnerable children. In relation to that, it is crucial for school administrators to put forward solutions and remedies after the initial diagnosis of the situation.