Philippine E-Journals

Building Capabilities of the Neophyte School Heads: Initiatives and Needs

Margarita Licayan | Asuncion P. Pabalan

Discipline: Education

 

Abstract:

This research focused on identifying the initiatives in place to foster the development of neophyte school heads' capabilities, understanding their specific needs, and proposing a framework for improvement during the academic year 2022-2023. The study uncovered that mentoring programs, professional development courses, networking opportunities, online resources, and in-service support collectively played a pivotal role in equipping neophyte school heads with the skills and competencies essential for effective instructional leadership and achieving positive educational outcomes. Furthermore, the research identified a set of critical needs among neophyte school heads, including Leadership and Management Skills, Understanding Education Policies, Financial Management, Teacher Development and Evaluation, Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, Data-Driven Decision Making, Professional Networking and Collaboration, as well as Emotional Intelligence and Self-Care. Addressing these specific needs through tailored professional development programs and ongoing support emerges as a key strategy to enhance their capabilities as school leaders. In conclusion, the study underscores the significance of professional development initiatives for neophyte school heads who often lack the essential skills and experience required for effective school management. It advocates for investments in specialized training, mentorship, and facilitating access to pertinent resources as pivotal steps towards ensuring their success in leadership roles. To this end, it offers recommendations for the development of comprehensive professional development programs, the establishment of collaborative networks, and the allocation of adequate resources to empower neophyte school heads, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes.