School management strategies in crisis response: Mitigating the effects of class suspension
Abstract
This study aimed to determine school management strategies in crisis response to mitigate class suspension effects. Anchored on Crisis Management, Social Cognitive, and Equity theories, this quantitative descriptive-correlational research utilized total enumeration, gathering data from 20 school heads and 301 teachers in Labo East District via a validated researcher-made questionnaire. Data were analyzed using weighted mean, Pearson’s r, and Spearman’s ρ at a 0.05 level of significance to formulate a data-driven intervention. Findings revealed that strategies were Always Implemented, led by Communication and Stakeholder Coordination (WM=4.59), though Planning scored lowest (WM=4.40). Suspensions exerted a High Effect on student learning, particularly on learners falling behind (WM=4.21) and requiring extensive recovery time (WM=4.00). Pearson’s r confirmed significant positive relationships (p<.01) between implementation and learning effects, specifically in Learning Continuity (r=.276). Strategies were perceived as Very Effective, notably in Communication (WM=4.31), while Spearman’s ρ established strong correlations between strategies and effectiveness (ρ=.693). The study concludes that while schools excel in immediate safety, gaps exist in pedagogical continuity and plan revision. Consequently, the study proposed The LABO Handbook, a localized manual featuring a Multi-Hazard Connectivity Census, decentralized logistics, and Day 1 Recovery Protocol. Recommendations include that SDRRM officers may institutionalize systematic plan reviews, teachers may prioritize remediation bridge programs for at-risk learners, and stakeholders may fully adopt the proposed handbook to transition school management from a reactive to a proactive system of resilience. This ensures that instructional delivery remains consistent, equitable, and resilient despite experiencing any natural, health, security, or environmental hazard in district schools.