An Appreciative Inquiry on Performing Secondary Schools in Region Iv-A Calabarzon

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The full implementation of the Results-based Performance Management System (RPMS) in the Philippines created a strong controversy among Department of Education employees in terms of acquiring high quality performance for their respective schools. To help alleviate the burden of most public schools in achieving such objective, this study aimed to seek the most effective leadership styles and strategies through the told stories of performing secondary schools to create a model for school performance.

METHODS

The study used a narrative methodology framed with Appreciative Inquiry (AI) 4" D cycle on five performing public secondary schools in Region IV-A CALABARZON. Data was gathered through structured interview, FGD, documentary analysis and on-site observation. Coding and thematic analysis of data derived from the story telling of the participants during the AI process while on-site observation, field notes and documentary analysis were used for triangulation.

RESULTS

The findings showed that the schools' performance was best in terms of financial stewardship, process efficiency, leadership, learning and growth. The performance is due to the following aspects: Leadership Styles; High Point Experiences; and Alternative and Innovative Approaches. The schools' best practices had greatly contributed to the holistic growth of the learners to have a healthy mind and body. Furthermore, the use of AI learning activity proved as an effective avenue to explicitly underscore some factors, insights and leadership styles that facilitated the schools' exemplary performance.

DISCUSSIONS

Delivering the best practices in fulfilling school tasks would certainly create positive accomplishments. In the theory of Mintrom (2014), creating the cultures of excellence in all educational institution is a matter of practice or training among its people. Thus, it is important that a leader must create an ideal mind set for his constituents in order to bring everyone in the school organization into meaningful educational accomplishments.