Exploring Remote Teacher Engagement and Work-Life Balance in the New Normal

The study delved into qualitatively determining the teacher engagement and work-life balance of secondary teachers in selected public secondary schools in the Division of Rizal during the School Year 2021 - 2022. The study employed a purposive sampling technique in determining the school and the study's respondents. The researcher utilized one (1) teacher participant per school from each learning area, such as English, Science, Filipino, Mathematics, and MAPEH. A total of ten (10) participants. The study concluded that teacher participants had various significant experiences in remote learning as to instructional engagement, teacher engagement, and work-life balance such as using technological platforms and differentiated instruction, enforcing positive feedback and guidance to students, and positive outlook in both personal life and professional career. Also, regarding meaning formulated from the responses, teacher engagement was highly implemented in select secondary schools. The select schools have their projects and programs implemented such as Project AKAP: Anak, Kamusta Ang Pag-aaral, Project RIOS (Reach-out Individuals Outside School), ALTO program, etc. that could help students who lag behind in remote learning to cope and go back to their core. As to the themes that emerged from the meanings, it is important to have sustainability in the projects and programs implemented at the school to promote the development of knowledge, skills, understanding, values, and actions, which ensure quality learning for the students in the remote learning.