Title:
THE DUAL ROLE OF BEING A TEACHER AND A SCHOOL MANAGER: VOICES OF TEACHERS-IN-CHARGE

Authors:
Jeannet E. Canda, RN, Eugenio S. Guhao , Jr. and Geraldine D. Rodriguez

Abstract:
The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the experiences of 17 teachers-incharge who played a dual role, a classroom teacher and school manager in selected Public Secondary Schools in General Santos City and Sarangani Province, South Cotabato. There were eight male and nine female participants who assumed dual roles. This study employed in-depth interview and focus group discussion to explore the experiences, challenges and insights of the teachers-in charge as they exercise such roles in their own school. Results revealed that all the teachers-in-charge have experienced being torn between two functions, dealing with supervising instruction, managing the school in facing hindrances and frustrations in handling people, dealing with fiscal restrictions, feeling accomplished, and growing personally and professionally. Challenges faced by teachers-in-charge revealed that they need to be resourceful, establish good rapport with stakeholders and practice shared responsibility to realize the schools vision. Similarly, having dual role also gained insights in building a strong foundation of trust among constituents and commitment in developing values towards the realization of the schools’ vision and mission. Moreover, the results may prepare them in designing interventions to respond more responsibly to the instructional and school management challenges.