Financial Management Role of Public Secondary School Managers in The Three Cities of Batangas Province

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Successful implementation of various educational programs and projects largely depends on proper utilization of funds and effective management of school finances. Managing the financial resources of the school is very crucial to educational management. This study looked into the description of public secondary school managers in terms of their qualities as administrators as well as their financial management roles. The study is very timely since it is significant to the present education setting.

METHODS

The study used the descriptive method with the questionnaire and focus group discussion as the main data gathering instruments. Respondents selected for this study were 75 school heads, 255 teachers and 250 PTA officials. Kuder-Richardson formula, Ranking, Weighted mean, Cronbach Alpha, Pearson Product Moment Correlation and F-test were the statistical tools utilized in the study.

RESULTS

The school managers complied with their financial management role to a very great extent in terms of budgetary allocation, disbursement, accounting and liquidation, book keeping and transparency. There was no significant difference established in the assessment of the three groups regarding the personal and professional qualities of public secondary school managers as well as their financial management role. The three groups of respondents did not differ in their assessments which led in the acceptance of the null hypothesis. A proposed management plan was conceptualized to enhance their financial management role which will guide the school managers and officials of the academe to achieving successful financial management.

DISCUSSIONS

The findings and conclusions of the study recommends that the school heads be trained in the field of financial management. They should also pursue graduate education to acquire updated knowledge and experience in making budgetary allocation that will address the needs of the school. Under School-based Management, there are school funds which the school heads need to use responsibly. A similar study may be conducted to intensify the successful implementation of school-based management with transparent, ethical and accountable governance. This will lead to effective and efficient performance of school managers and better performance level of learners.