The Road Not Taken: Life of Learners with Special Educational Needs (LSENs) After Elementary Education

Elementary education is the foundation of lifelong learning and personal development of every learner.This qualitative study aims to explore the lived inspiring experiences of learners with special educational needs (LSENs) after finishing their elementary education, specifically Grade 6 level.It used qualitative-phenomenological approach.Despite the implementation of inclusive education in the Philippines to acquire equal educational rights for all learners, LSENs are included as candidates for bullying and at risk of dropping out.This is due to some underlying challenges like the severity of their disability, financial status of their parents and the availability of accommodations in school.The study revealed that the 3 key informants were able to continue their studies after graduating Grade 6 in some schools in Benguet and Baguio City because of their innate strong determination to finish their studies.They urge to improve the quality of their own life.Moreover, the effective collaboration among teachers, families and other support services is the forefront in cultivating and guiding LSENs to strive in their academics successfully.This study contributes on the positive outlook in supporting LSENs to pursue higher educational attainment after Grade 6.It negates the traditional mindset that they should stay at home only since they can't survive in school.It advocates for more development of the school system to support diverse learners most specially these kind of learners also.