Abstract
The study aimed to assess the impact of continuing education on career advancement and job satisfaction of public-school teachers as a foundation for a professional development framework. The study utilized a descriptive correlational research design. The study used two hundred (200) teacher respondents using the purposive sampling technique. Further, the consolidated results from quantitative research served as a guide in developing a framework for public-school teachers to further enhance their career advancement and job satisfaction through continuing education. The findings revealed that most of the teachers were middle-aged women who held a master's degree and were employed in a Teacher II position. Educators are acutely cognizant of professional progression regarding skill and knowledge enhancement, augmented educational duties, wage increments, involvement in leadership and mentorship, as well as accolades, honors, or commendations. A notable disparity exists in the degree of continuing education impacting the career progression of public-school teachers, concerning skill and knowledge gain, involvement in leadership and mentoring, and receipt of recognition, awards, or commendations, when categorized by age. Continuing education significantly impacts teachers' job satisfaction on work engagement and motivation, receptiveness to innovation and change, sense of competence and confidence, self-reported satisfaction levels, and relationships with colleagues and the school environment. No substantial difference exists in the impact of continuing education on the career progression of public-school teachers regarding skill and knowledge acquisition, augmented educational responsibilities, salary increases, involvement in leadership and mentoring, and recognition, awards, or commendations when categorized by age, sex, position title, and highest educational attainment. A notable correlation exists between the degree of continuing education and both career advancement and job satisfaction among public-school teachers. Continuing education significantly influences career progression and job satisfaction for public-school educators. As an outcome of the findings and the conclusions, the following recommendations were enumerated: Teachers may actively participate in school-sponsored workshops, seminars, and courses to upgrade instructional skills and stay abreast of current educational trends; Students may offer constructive feedback on teaching methods and classroom environment to help teachers identify areas for professional growth and improvement; School administrators may create policies that encourage continuous professional development, including incentives, recognition, and protected time for training.
