Navigating School Safety and Security: Teachers' Lived Experiences

This study explored teachers' lived experiences in navigating school safety and security measures in Gregorio Moralizon Elementary School-I, Manay North District, Davao Oriental Division. Specifically, it aimed to understand how teachers perceive and respond to current safety and security protocols, the challenges they face, and the coping strategies they employ. Using a phenomenological approach, the research captured in-depth insights through individual interviews and a focus group discussion. Data were analyzed using a thematic coding technique. For the first objective, which focused on teachers’ experiences with current safety and security measures, key themes emerged, including Experiencing Enhanced Preparedness and Confidence During Emergencies, Improving Sense of Security Among Staff and Students, and Strengthening Collaboration and Awareness. However, participants also identified persistent challenges such as Facing Limited Resources and Infrastructure, and Increasing Workload and Stress. In response to these challenges, teachers employed various strategies. The second objective revealed themes of collaboration and communication, Professional development and training, and creating a positive school culture as effective coping mechanisms. From an educational management perspective, significant insights surfaced: Ensuring School Safety through Collaborative Leadership and Continuously Developing Professionally as a Key Strategy. These findings emphasize that school leaders and policymakers need to prioritize proactive and inclusive safety planning, provide adequate resources, and cultivate a supportive school culture to ensure staff well-being and student protection.