Abstract
This research explores the operational characteristics of high-performing public secondary schools in Region VII as perceived by their respective school principals, encompassing Bohol, Tagbilaran City, Cebu City, Mandaue City, Siquijor, and Dumaguete City divisions for School Years 2019-2020, 2020-2021, and 2021-2022. The study delves into the practices and actions contributing to their success, focusing on organizational, instructional, professional, and community participation. The study assesses the principals' perceived level of practice in instructional leadership, learning environment, human resource management, parent and community involvement, school leadership, management, and operation, plus factors. Additionally, actions implemented by school principals are explored to identify strategies distinguishing these schools in areas of access, quality, and governance. The findings reveal a very high level of practice across evaluated dimensions, with particular emphasis on instructional leadership, learning environment, and community participation. Principals strategically employ academic monitoring, tutorial initiatives, and proactive home visitation to enhance academic performance and ensure inclusivity. The study recommends focusing on specific leadership practices proven to enhance instruction and student accomplishment, including vision-building, personnel development, organizational redesign, and efficient management of the teaching and learning process. Additionally, a proposed program is suggested to enhance institutional performance across schools.
