CHALLENGES, COPING MECHANISMS, AND SUCCESS STORIES OF NEOPHYTE PRINCIPALS: IMPACT ON SCHOOL LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT

Education Management and Leadership

This phenomenological research examined the challenges, coping mechanisms, and success stories experienced by neophyte pryincipals. Key informants were 11 neophyte principals in the Schools Division of La Union and the City of San Fernando Schools Division during SY 2020-2021. Data gathered using a semi-structured interview guide was thematically analyzed. It was revealed that the respondents' most pressing challenges were: lack of resources, and difficulties in transitioning to the new school. They addressed these situations by adopting effective leadership strategies involving a mix of professional and technical skills, conceptual skills, and interpersonal skills. They succeeded in strengthening collaboration among the school stakeholders, in achieving school development and improvement goals, and in improving students' academic achievement. It was concluded that the neophyte principals develop improved leadership skills and management practices which enabled them some impressive accomplishments in their respective schools, and gained the cooperation from the teachers, parents, and other stakeholders. Based on these findings, the researcher developed a conceptual model which can be used as a guide in attaining self-efficiency in leadership and management among the neophyte principals. In addition, the researcher also crafted a two-day supportive seminar on developing proactive collaboration between the school and other stakeholders of quality education.

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