THEN AND NOW: THE LEADERSHIP JOURNEYS OF BRIGADA ESKWELA COORDINATORS

Education

The purpose of this research was to explore and understand the experiences, challenges, coping mechanisms, and insights of six Brigada Eskwela Coordinators serving in public schools in Montevista, Davao de Oro. Using a phenomenological approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with selected coordinators to answer key research questions related to leadership development, community engagement, resource mobilization, emotional resilience, and program implementation. Findings revealed that while coordinators encountered difficulties such as low stakeholder participation, lack of financial support, and heavy workload, they remained steadfast in their commitment to fostering bayanihan and improving school environments. They coped by practicing strategic planning, promoting volunteerism, encouraging collaboration, and maintaining a growth-oriented mindset. Coordinators found meaning in building safe learning spaces, empowering communities, and strengthening their own leadership capacity. Aspirations centered on receiving clearer guidelines, adequate funding, structured training, and formal recognition to support their evolving roles. The study emphasized the importance of institutional support, inclusive policies, and sustainable leadership programs to enhance the effectiveness and well-being of Brigada Eskwela leaders. Recommendations called for integrated support systems, regular capacity-building, participatory planning, and policy reforms that recognize the coordinators' vital role in school-community development. The findings underscored Brigada Eskwela Coordinators as resilient, service-driven leaders committed to inclusive education and grassroots transformation.

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