Exploring the Roles of Master Teachers in Balancing Teaching and Leadership in Pudtol District, Philippines

This study investigates the complexities faced by master teachers in balancing their roles in teaching, mentoring, and leadership within the Schools Division of Apayao, Philippines. Master teachers are critical in enhancing educational outcomes, yet they often struggle with challenges related to workload management, lack of administrative support, and limited professional development opportunities. Utilizing a qualitative research design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 7 master teachers. Key findings reveal significant barriers that hinder their effectiveness, such as heavy teaching loads and insufficient time allocated for mentoring and leadership responsibilities. Participants expressed that despite these challenges, they perceive their effectiveness as having a positive influence on student outcomes. The study highlights the pressing need for targeted interventions and comprehensive professional development programs tailored to the specific needs of master teachers, enhancing their capacity to fulfill their dual responsibilities. Insights gained from this research aim to inform educational policies and practices, advocating for a nuanced understanding of the interplay between teaching, mentoring, and leadership in the Philippine educational landscape.