Characterizing Proficient Teachers as Teacher-Leaders in a Public Secondary School of Leyte Division

Abstract: This case study determines the ability of the classroom teachers of becoming teacher-leaders in school reform in the absence of highly proficient teachers and department heads in the institution. This study aimed to explore and characterize proficient teachers as teacher-leaders at Manlilisid National High School, Javier II District, Leyte Division. This study used mixed method investigative paradigm as its research design. Quantitatively, data were gathered using the Teacher Leadership Self-Assessment (TLSA) by Katzenmeyer and Katzenmeyer (2004). It was randomly distributed to thirteen proficient teachers. Qualitatively, a semi-structured interview was done to three proficient teachers who got highest ratings in the survey. The respondents granted permission to the researcher to use the data obtained. Data were then analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Upon the analysis, the characteristics of the proficient teachers as teacher-leaders are evident in self-awareness, diversity, and instructional proficiency. The school can also foster teacher leadership through the determined themes - initiative and independence, partnership engagement and teamwork, and positive school environment. This study can also be a subject for further research to analyse if there is a significant difference between these types of leadership behaviour, and use the same method and instrument but is implemented in a larger population.