Investigation of the Factors Affecting Teachers' Commitment to their Profession

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

In the Philippines, teachers are confronted with different issues and predicaments. Some focus on their performance as teachers while others are about their needs. Sometimes, these issues are reached by media questioning the commitment, professionalism, and dedication of teachers to their profession. Teaching is really a challenging role. Lipa City National High School is a subsystem of education under the Schools Division of Lipa City, motivated to achieve academic excellence through the efforts of teachers and school administrators as its prime movers. It was established in the year 1989 through the support of the local government officers. With the implementation of the K to 12 Program of the Department of Education, it is timely that the researcher studied the factors affecting the level of commitment of public secondary school teachers to their profession.

METHODS

With the use of the descriptive method, the study aimed to determine the factors affecting public school teachers' commitment to their profession and the level of teachers' commitment towards work performance, student's achievement, and school's success in Lipa City National High School. The researcher used a validated self-made questionnaire as the main instrument.

RESULTS

Teachers are always involved in attending and participating in keeping records of the student's performance. They are often involved in students' achievement and interest. They also maintain a harmonious relationship with fellow teachers and other school personnel. When the school is facing problems teachers should help in finding solutions. The study helps a lot in understanding what factors influences the teacher's commitment to their profession.

DISCUSSIONS

The leadership behavior of the principal was the major factor affecting public school teachers' commitment to their profession. Other factors were collegial support, job security and satisfaction, and school climate. Teachers must keep parents informed on student's progress, always involved in students' achievement and interest. They must upgrade through the use of ICT in teaching students and must maintain a harmonious relationship with fellow teachers and other school personnel as well as with parents and other stakeholders. Though, they should help in finding solutions when the school is facing problems and must also select and prepare curriculum materials for adoption. The teachers in Lipa City National High School have a great extent of commitment to their work.