THE SPECIAL PROGRAM IN THE ARTS: IMPLEMENTATION, MILESTONES, AND CHALLENGES

This study examined the implementation, milestones, and challenges of the Special Program in the Arts (SPA) among six recognized public secondary schools in DepEd Region VII, Philippines, during the school year 2021–2022. Employing a qualitative research design, data were gathered from 88 participants comprising six school principals, six SPA coordinators, 46 teacher-specialists, and 30 students through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The responses were transcribed, coded, and analyzed thematically. Findings revealed that five of the six schools offered all six prescribed arts specializations, while implementation was constrained by shortages of qualified teacher-specialists, inadequate facilities and instructional equipment, limited funding, and inconsistencies in curriculum delivery and student admission practices. Despite these limitations, the program achieved notable milestones in character and relationship formation, public recognition, participation in competitions, community engagement, organizational collaboration, project-based learning, student completion, and alumni accomplishments. Thematic analysis further identified challenges involving administrative coordination, teacher workload and competencies, weak foundational arts skills among students, limited instructional resources, negative perceptions of arts education, and conflicting academic and specialization schedules. The findings underscored the need for strengthened curriculum management, professional development, resource allocation, and institutional partnerships. An Innovative Management Plan was proposed to address implementation gaps, sustain program milestones, and enrich specialized arts education for Grades 7–10.