Voice from the Coastal: A Narrative Inquiry on the Opportunities in the Implementation of Philippine Professional Standards for School Heads (PPSSH) among Newly Designated Schoolheads in Kalamansig

Abstract

This study explored the lived experiences and opportunities of newly designated school heads implementing the Philippine Professional Standards for School Heads (PPSSH) in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat. Utilizing a qualitative narrative inquiry design, the research purposefully sampled 5-8 new school leaders with less than five years of experience. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews and Focus Group Discussions, and subsequently analyzed using thematic narrative analysis. The findings revealed that these leaders experienced a challenging transition marked by initial uncertainty before developing a profound commitment to their school communities. They faced severe operational difficulties inherent in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA) and last-mile schools, including deteriorated infrastructure, lack of electricity, and high learner absenteeism driven by geographic barriers and economic responsibilities like farming and mining. Consequently, effective leadership in this coastal and remote context required deep cultural sensitivity, adaptive flexibility, and trust-based community partnerships rather than rigid adherence to standardized policies. Furthermore, systemic challenges such as frequent curriculum changes and inequitable resource distribution significantly hindered operations. The study concludes that achieving quality education in last-mile schools necessitates highly contextualized leadership and shared community ownership. It recommends that policymakers prioritize equitable resource allocation for GIDA schools, establish transparent data reporting systems, ensure curriculum stability, and provide targeted, localized professional development to better support newly designated school heads. Keywords: Philippine Professional Standards for School Heads (PPSSH), newly designated school heads, narrative inquiry, educational leadership, Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA)