Abstract
This study explored the lived experiences of teachers, community leaders, and parents concerning the principal’s leadership in selected schools of South President Quirino District. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, the research aimed to understand how the principal’s leadership influences stakeholder engagement, school culture, and professional development. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten teachers, five community leaders, and five parents, and thematic analysis was employed to identify recurring patterns. The findings revealed ten key themes, including transformational leadership, inclusive practices, communication, resource management, and mentorship. The principal’s transformational leadership inspired creativity and commitment among teachers, while inclusive practices fostered equity and strengthened participative decision-making. Effective communication and transparency built trust and empowered stakeholders to actively engage in school initiatives. Despite challenges such as resource limitations, the principal’s resourcefulness and innovative approaches ensured the optimization of available resources, creating a supportive and thriving school environment. These findings align with existing literature on school leadership and highlight the critical role of principals in fostering cohesive educational communities. Recommendations include enhancing professional development, promoting participative leadership, and establishing mentorship programs to sustain and replicate effective leadership practices. This study emphasizes the need for continued investment in leadership development to drive school improvement and stakeholder collaboration.
