Elevating Education: Instructional Leadership Practices of Principals in Cebu City's Selected Public High Schools

Abstract This study examines the instructional leadership practices of principals in selected public secondary schools in Cebu City. Using Hallinger’s Principal Instructional Management Rating Scale (PIMRS), the study identifies key leadership practices in the areas of school goal setting, curriculum coordination, instructional supervision, and teacher incentives. Results show that principals display a moderate level of engagement in instructional leadership, with significant variation across schools and leadership dimensions. The study highlights strengths in goal framing and communication, but gaps exist in areas such as maintaining high visibility and evaluating instruction. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA and Scheffé's test, reveal notable differences in leadership practices across the ten dimensions, suggesting opportunities for improvement. Recommendations emphasize the need for targeted professional development to enhance principals' visibility and instructional oversight, aligning leadership practices with transformative educational goals. Keywords: Department of Education, School Leadership Practices, Curriculum, Instructional Supervision, School Goal Setting, Cebu City, Philippines