LEADING THE WAY: ACCOUNTS OF TEACHERS-IN-CHARGE IN ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS

EDUCATION

The goal of this research was to describe the experiences gained by the Teachers-in-Charge in dealing with problems in school management at Monkayo District, Monkayo, Division of Davao de Oro. Employing phenomenological approach among ten (10) teacher participants, in-depth interview was conducted which answered the four fundamental questions. Essential themes were generated out from their responses to the research questions. The results uncovered the participants’ lived experiences, and from it ten (10) themes emerged: very stressful at first, stressful in meeting deadlines and other problems, dealing with teachers, being a school head is not an easy job, training ground, attending seminars, take on management roles, stepping stone for higher position, being able to attend seminars, and leaving a legacy to the school. The participants also shared the challenges they encountered in teachers-in-charge, from which emerged eight (8) themes: teachers’ attitude, problem with time management, managing of various school concerns, decision-making, handling co-teachers, taking on dual roles, TICs always met with problems, and lack time to perform tasks. Further, for the coping mechanisms they revealed ten (10) essential themes: do planning, passion for the job, study DepEd orders, collaboration with stakeholders, open communication strategy, establish good communication and transparency, collaborative discussion with teachers, Co-teachers and PTA, technical assistance, and ideas from other people. Lastly, for the insights they cited, nine (9) themes emerged: to be optimistic, to be firm, handle challenges in sobriety, learn to be humble, additional cash incentives, reduce TICs teaching loads, get more trainings and seminars, promoted as full-pledge school head, and to become an effective school head. In view of the above, these results will undoubtedly guide future educational practices and research efforts, resulting in a more supportive and collaborative educational environment for the benefit of students, teachers, and administrators alike.

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