Secondary Schools' Student Services Management and Operations in Calabarzon: An Enhanced Continuous Improvement Program

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

This study was conducted to find out the level of implementation and practices in the operation of student services among secondary schools. The importance of continuous assessment, maintenance and monitoring student services programs. The study aimed of designing management intervention tools and mechanisms which will channel adequate, efficient and cost-effective delivery of student services.

METHODS

To meet the objectives of this study, 146 key personnel of the student services served as respondents. The mixed method of research was utilized where research questionnaires with open-ended questions were explored together with interviews and observations. Statistical treatments used were analysis of variance, (ANOVA), Pearson r Correlation and weighted mean.

RESULTS

Findings revealed that management and operations of student services were implemented in the basic services provided by the Guidance and Counselling Office, Library Services, School Publications, Supreme Student Government (SSG), Canteen Operations and Gender Awareness and Development (GAD)among the secondary schools in CALABARZON. Also, there is a high correlation between management and operations of student services. Financial Management received lower average weighted mean of 3.32, interpreted as Strongly Agree, GAD posted an average weighted mean of 3.41, interpreted as Strongly Agree. It showed the absence of GAD office in most of the responding schools. Internal Process registered the lowest positive result of 3.31 average weighted mean (AWM), interpreted as Strongly Agree. Observations and interviews showed that there are no organizational charts, manual of operations and office workflow in most respondents’ schools. Resourcefulness showed that Parents' Teachers Association (PTA) participation help regulate student services.

DISCUSSIONS

The result revealed that there is a smooth utilization of various student services in secondary schools in CALABARZON. The policies, guidelines and mandates of the Department of Education on the delivery of student services were also observed in schools. However, study showed that challenges and problems arise due to the notable evidences of like absence of feedback mechanisms, inadequate financial literacy program and meager dissemination of Child Protection Policy. Thus, an enhanced continuous improvement program with specific parts such as objectives, strategies, programs and budgetary requirement, was developed as student services delivery guide.