If There's A Will, There's A Way: Exploring the Experiences of Grade 6 Learners under the School Reading Program at Salimama Integrated School

The purpose of this multiple-case study was to describe and analyze the challenges encountered by Grade 6 learners in the School-Based Reading Program at Salimama Integrated School, Alabel 4 District, Alabel, Sarangani Province. Using a qualitative case study approach, the research involved five Grade 6 learners as respondents. The findings revealed four main challenges: difficulty in understanding reading materials, the need for translation into the local language, struggles with grammar, writing, and composition, and absenteeism due to home responsibilities. In terms of coping mechanisms, the learners demonstrated self-proficiency, perseverance and hard work, a commitment to finishing their studies and improving themselves, and relied on support from family and teachers. Additionally, three key lessons learned were identified: development of language competence, vocabulary enhancement, and improved oral language fluency. These findings offer valuable insights into the difficulties faced by learners in reading programs and suggest areas for intervention and support to improve their literacy development., and future research on strengthening family communication dynamics.