LEVEL OF AWARENESS AND EXTENT OF CHALLENGES OF CHILD PROTECTION POLICY IN THE THIRD DISTRICT OF QUEZON PROVINCE: BASIS FOR POLICY NOTES A Dissertation Presented to The Faculty of the Graduate School of Education University of Perpetual Help System-DALTA Las Piňas City In Partial Fulfillment Of the Requirements for the Degree Doctor of Philosophy in Education Major in Educational Management IRENE RECHELLE R. FAJARITO April 2024 ii APPROVAL SHEET This dissertation entitled “LEVEL OF AWARENESS AND EXTENT OF CHALLENGES OF CHILD PROTECTION POLICY IN THE THIRD DISTRICT OF QUEZON PROVINCE: BASIS FOR POLICY NOTES” prepared and submitted by IRENE RECHELLE R. FAJARITO in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management has been examined and recommended for acceptance and approval for Final Oral Examination. DENNIS M. MARQUEZ, EdD Adviser ORAL EXAMINATION COMMITTEE Approved by the Committee on Oral Examination with a grade of _______. DR. FERDINAND C. SERRANO Member DR. MARIA FELISA P. CALICDAN Member DR. MACARIO D. FELECIA, JR. Member DR. MARITES M. ANN Member DR. RONEIL P. EDU Chairman Accepted and approved in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Education, major in Educational Management. DR. EDUARDO C. ZIALCITA Dean iii ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The researcher expresses profound gratitude for the invaluable support and immeasurable appreciation extended to the following individuals for their generous assistance, unwavering encouragement, and wholehearted cooperation in making this study a reality. First and foremost, praises and glory to God Almighty for His immeasurable grace and blessings He showered upon her throughout this research journey. Dr. Eduardo C. Zialcita, Dean of the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta – Las Piñas Campus Graduate Studies, for his professional assistance towards its completion. Dr. Dennis M. Marquez, her research adviser who believed in her and work hard toward this work’s fruition. Dr. Roneil P. Edu, the chairperson of oral examination committee and members, Dr. Ferdinand C. Serrano, Dr. Maria Felisa P. Calicdan, Dr. Macario Felicia, Jr. and Dr. Marites M. Ann for building motivation and providing positive comments in improving the research study. Dr. Rommel C. Bautista, Schools Division Superintendent, for allowing the researcher to conduct the study, Mr. Isidro P. Delos Reyes, Public Schools District Supervisor, Buenavista District I, Mr. Rogelio P. Villapando, Secondary iv Principal II and Mr. Roland V. Magsino, Assistant Secondary Principal II of Buenavista National High School for their constant reminder to dream and never stop dreaming; To her family especially to her father, Dr. Hoberto N. Rebanal for the endless trust and moral support, and in printmaking inspires the researcher to continue this kind of significant undertaking. Her husband, Mr. Jay Russel F. Fajarito, for his unconditional love and support; their adorable kids, Johan Red, Rence Rua and Liam Ray, her daily dose of happiness, a lucky charm in finishing this study despite many ups and downs. To her colleagues and friends, for rendering their precious time in providing the researchers need and for the effort in supporting the researcher. And once again, to God be all the Glory. IRERF v ABSTRACT This study explores the demographic profile of school heads and teachers, their awareness of Child Protection Policies (CPP), challenges encountered in policy implementation, and the interrelationships of these factors within Quezon Province's Third District, Philippines. Employing a pure quantitative research design with a structured survey questionnaire, the study sampled 278 senior high school administrators and teachers from a total population of 808. Findings reveal a predominantly mid-career, highly educated, and predominantly female teaching workforce, with significant representation aged between 39-44 years (67.8%) and holding Master’s degrees (61.0%). However, gaps in age diversity and gender balance persist, particularly among younger and older educators and male teachers. Teachers in positions I-III (83.5%) primarily oversee day-to-day policy implementation, while Master Teachers (16.5%) provide strategic insights, reflecting diverse lengths of service among respondents. The study identifies key challenges in policy implementation arising from resource limitations, institutional culture, and legal complexities. Recommendations include tailored training initiatives for different demographic groups, improved resource allocation, and the cultivation of collaborative institutional cultures. These steps are proposed to enhance CPP understanding and effectiveness in senior high schools, thereby fostering safer educational environments. Keywords: awareness, challenges, Child Protection Policies, culture and support familiarity with policy content, reporting procedures, senior high schools, supports and resources vi TABLE OF CONTENTS TITLE PAGE TITLE PAGE i APPROVAL SHEET ii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS iii ABSTRACT v TABLE OF CONTENTS vi LIST OF TABLES ix LIST OF FIGURE xii CHAPTER PAGE 1 1 THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND Introduction 1 Background of the Study 3 Theoretical Framework 5 Conceptual Framework 7 Statement of the Problem 9 Hypotheses 12 Scope and Delimitation of the Study 12 Significance of the Study 14 Definition of Terms 17 vi 2 3 4 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES 20 Related Literature and Studies 20 Synthesis 73 METHODOLOGY 76 Research Design 76 Population and Sampling 76 Respondents of the Study 77 Research Instrument 78 Data Gathering Procedure 80 Statistical Analysis 81 PRESENTATION, INTERPRETATION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA 83 Demographic Profile of Respondents 84 Level of Awareness Regarding Child Protection Policies as assessed by the Two-group of Respondents 107 Challenges Encountered by the Respondents Regarding the Implementation of the Child Protection Policy 128 Significant Difference Between the Level of Awareness of The School Heads and Teachers When Grouped According to Demographic Profiles 143 vii Significant Difference Between the Extent of Challenges of The School Heads and Teachers When Grouped According to Demographic Profiles 146 Significant Relationship Between the Level of Awareness and the Extent of Challenges Encountered by the Respondents 149 Proposed Policy Notes on Child Protection Policy Implementation in Senior High Shool in Senior High Schools under DepEd Quezon 5 152 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 160 Summary of Findings 160 Conclusions 164 Recommendations 168 REFERENCES 172 APPENDICES A Letter Asking Permission to Conduct Study to the District Superintendent 180 B. Data Sharing Agreement 181 C. Letter to District Supervisors 186 D. Letter to Respondents 194 E. Survey Questionnaire 196 viii F. Letter to Validators and Validated Questionnaires 206 G. Certification of Statistical Analysis 250 H. Curriculum Vitae 251 ix LIST OF TABLES Table 1. Demograpic Profile of the School Head in terms of Age 85 Table 2. Demographic Profile of the School Heads In terms of Sex 87 Table 3. Demoographic Profile of the School Heads in terms of Position 89 Table 4. Demographic Profile of the School Heads in terms of Highest Educational Attainment 91 Table 5. Demographic Profile of the School Head Heads in terms of Length of Service 94 Table 6. Demographic Profile of the Teachers in terms of Age 97 Table 7. Demographic Profile of the Teachers in terms of Sex 99 Table 8. Demographic Profile of the Teachers in terms of Position 101 Table 9. Demographic Profile of the Teachers in terms of Highest Educational Attainment 103 Table 10. Demographic Profile of the Teachers in terms of Respondent’s Length of Service 105 Table 11. Level of Awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies in terms of Familiarity with Policy Content 108 Table 12.Level of Awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies in terms of Understanding of Reporting Procedures 111 x Table 13. Level of Awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies in terms of Awareness of Support Resources 114 Table 14. Level of Awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies in terms of Sigs and Indicators 117 Table 15. Level of Awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies in terms of Legal and Obligations 120 Table 16. Level of Awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies in terms of Training or Professional Development 123 Table 17. Consolidated Weighted Average Mean of Respondents in Level of Awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies 127 Table 18. Challenges Encountered of School Heads and Teachers in the Senior High School, Third District Regarding the Implementation of the Child Protection Policy in terms of Awareness in Training 130 x Table 19. Challenges Encountered of School Heads and Teachers in the Senior High School, Third District Regarding the Implementation of the Child Protection Policy in terms of Resource Constraints 133 Table 20. Challenges Encountered of School Heads and Teachers in the Senior High School, Third District Regarding the Implementation of the Child Protection Policy in terms of Institutional Culture and Support 136 Table 21. Challenges Encountered of School Heads and Teachers in the Senior High School, Third District Regarding the Implementation of the Child Protection Policy in terms of Legal and Reporting 139 Table 22. Consolidate Weighted Average Mean of School Heads and Teachers Respondents Challenges Encountered in the Senior High School, Third District Regarding the Implementation of the Child Protection Policy 142 Table 23. Significant Difference Between the Level of Awareness of the School Heads and Teachers when grouped According to Demographic Profiles 145 Table 24. Significant Difference Between the Extent of of Challenges the School Heads and Teachers when grouped According to Demographic Profiles 148 Table 25. Significant Relationship Between the Level of Awareness and the Extent of Challenges Encountered by the Respondents 151 xii LIST OF FIGURE Figure 1. Conceptual Framework 8 Chapter 1 THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND Introduction In the global educational landscape, safeguarding the safety and rights of students stands as a critical priority. This significance is particularly emphasized within senior high schools under the Department of Education (DepEd) in the Philippines. Recent years have witnessed a surge in concerns regarding child protection and safety, notably due to distressing incidents involving child abuse, bullying, and other forms of misconduct (Gordon, 2019). These incidents have brought to light the effectiveness of existing child protection policies. An evident gap has emerged between the meticulously crafted policies aimed at protecting students' welfare and their actual implementation on the ground. The underlying causes for this gap are varied, encompassing resource constraints, inadequate training, limited awareness, and administrative complexities (Montalbo, 2019). Given these factors, a thorough examination of the implementation effectiveness of child protection policies within senior high schools of DepEd Quezon becomes a compelling imperative. At the heart of this issue lies the effectiveness of implementing child protection policies in these educational institutions. Despite the presence of well-defined policies designed to ensure the well-being and rights of students, instances 2 of abuse, bullying, and safety lapses persist. This underscores the urgent need to critically assess the extent to which these policies are effectively put into practice and whether they achieve the intended outcomes of fostering a secure and conducive learning environment for students. The rationale for selecting this research topic is deeply rooted in the pressing need to bridge the gap between policy formulation and practical application in the realm of child protection. Educational institutions not only impart knowledge but also play a crucial role in nurturing students, making their safety of paramount significance. By scrutinizing the implementation of child protection policies in senior high schools, this study aims to uncover the challenges and opportunities involved in translating policies into tangible safeguards. The insights gained from this study can then be utilized to refine strategies, enhance training initiatives, allocate resources optimally, and address systemic barriers that hinder the effective execution of child protection policies. Given these circumstances, the primary objective of this study is to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the implementation effectiveness of child protection policies within senior high schools under the jurisdiction of Third District of DepEd Quezon. This involves multifaceted objectives: evaluating the practical application of policies, assessing their impact on student well-being and safety, identifying barriers that hinder their optimal execution, and providing actionable recommendations to strengthen child protection measures. In summary, this research seeks to address 3 the urgent need to improve the implementation of child protection policies in senior high schools under Third District of Quezon. By examining the current situation, underlying challenges, and potential solutions, the study aims to make a substantive contribution to the establishment of a safer and more nurturing educational environment for students. Background of the Study In the educational landscape, the fundamental tenets of student safety and well-being are integral to fostering holistic development. As concerns regarding child protection and safety continue to escalate, comprehensive policies have been meticulously crafted to provide students with a secure and conducive learning environment. This study conducts an in-depth exploration of the efficacy of implementing child protection policies within senior high schools under the jurisdiction of the Department of Education (DepEd) Quezon—a region distinguished for hosting the largest student population in CALABARZON. DepEd Quezon stands as a significant educational hub in the CALABARZON region, comprising a diverse array of educational institutions catering to students across different academic tiers. Notably, the senior high school phase plays a pivotal role in students' educational journeys, shaping the trajectories that lead to their future aspirations and professional pursuits. Despite the promising educational landscape, a cloud of concern hangs over the effective implementation of child protection policies 4 within senior high schools. The urgency of this issue is underscored by the fact that senior high school represents a culminating phase for many students before they embark on higher education or enter the workforce. Challenges in implementing these critical child protection policies have resulted in adverse consequences, with some students compelled to discontinue their educational pursuits due to the fallout from inadequate policy execution (Santos, 2020). In light of these challenges, the significance of this study is profound. At its core, the study aims to unravel the intricate interplay between policy formulations and their practical application within senior high schools. The effective deployment of child protection policies directly influences students' academic engagement, emotional well-being, and shapes the contours of their future prospects (Veloso, 2019). Therefore, the primary objective of this study is to unearth the foundational factors contributing to the pronounced gap between policy ideals and their on-ground manifestation. A crucial aspect that amplifies the gravity of the senior high school phase is its transitional nature. This juncture serves as a gateway through which students transition to higher education or the professional sphere. Any discord or disruption during this period, stemming from safety concerns or allied issues, has the potential to reverberate across their trajectories, leaving indelible imprints on their personal, academic, and professional journeys. In summary, the focal point of this study—an exploration into the implementation effectiveness of child protection policies within senior high schools under DepEd Quezon—is firmly anchored in the bedrock of educational prominence. 5 It addresses the challenges inherent in policy realization and highlights the transformative potential of the senior high school phase. Through an incisive investigation into the nuanced dynamics of policy instantiation, this research aspires to act as a catalyst, fostering the evolution of policies, practices, and support frameworks that cultivate an educational landscape characterized by security, nurturing, and an unimpeded pursuit of knowledge. Theoretical Framework The theoretical framework for this study draws upon key theories to comprehensively explore the dynamics surrounding the efficacy of child protection policies in senior high schools of the Third District of Quezon. These theories provide valuable lenses through which to analyze the implementation of such policies and understand the challenges and opportunities for improvement. Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory (1979) offers a comprehensive framework for understanding how different environments influence an individual's development and behavior. In the context of child protection policies: The Microsystem includes the immediate environment where students interact (e.g., classrooms, peer groups), affecting the awareness and enforcement of child protection policies. The Mesosystem involves the connections between different microsystems (e.g., between school and community), influencing collaboration and 6 policy implementation. The Exosystem refers to external factors like government policies and media attention, which indirectly impact school systems and policy implementation. Social Learning Theory (Bandura, 1977) focuses on how individuals learn through observing others' behaviors, attitudes, and outcomes. For child protection policies: The theory suggests that clear policies can serve as models for behavior. When students, teachers, and administrators observe consistent policy application, it can influence behaviors to create a safer school environment. Institutional Theory (Scott, 2008) helps understand how organizations like schools adapt to external pressures and expectations. Regarding child protection policies: Organizational Adaptation is crucial for schools to meet policy requirements. This theory allows analysis of how schools in the Third District of Quezon adjust their structures, practices, and culture to align with these policies. Diffusion of Innovations Theory (Rogers, 2003) is relevant for understanding the spread of new ideas or policies within organizations. In this context: The theory helps examine the stages of awareness, adoption, implementation, and confirmation of child protection policies in senior high schools. It identifies potential barriers and proposes strategies for smoother integration. These theories collectively contribute to understanding the levels of awareness among stakeholders and the challenges faced in implementing child protection policies. They provide valuable insights into 7 improving awareness campaigns, adapting organizational structures, overcoming implementation hurdles, and fostering a culture of safety. In summary, this theoretical framework serves as a foundation for understanding the complexities surrounding child protection policy implementation. It offers lenses to assess awareness levels, identify challenges, and provide actionable policy recommendations to create a safer educational environment in the Third District of Quezon. Conceptual Framework The conceptual framework for this study aims to provide a structured approach to understanding the implementation effectiveness of child protection policies in senior high schools of the Third District of Quezon. This framework illustrates the key components: input, process, and output, which were guide the investigation into the level of awareness and extent of challenges regarding child protection policies. INPUT PROCESS Development and validation of instrument. Seek approval from the Division office down to public schools OUTPUT 8 Figure 1. Conceptual paradigm of the study in a form of Input, Process and Output The conceptual framework of this study follows an Input, Process, Output (IPO) model to analyze the implementation of child protection policies in senior high 9 schools. In Input phase focuses on gathering demographic information and assessing awareness levels and challenges related to CPP, as well as various aspects of awareness regarding CPP. In the process phase, the study involves the development and validation of the survey instrument, seeking approval from relevant education authorities, conducting surveys, and analyzing data using descriptive statistics such as mean, median, mode, frequency distributions, percentages, chi-square tests, and Pearson's r. The output is a Basis for Policy Notes in the implementation of Child Protection Policy in the Senior High School for third district of SDO Quezon. The IPO framework facilitates a systematic and comprehensive analysis, contributing valuable insights and actionable recommendations to improve child protection policy implementation in senior high schools. Statement of the Problem The main purpose of this study was to comprehensively investigate the level of awareness and extent of challenges surrounding the implementation of child protection policies in senior high schools of the Third District of Quezon. This examination served as the foundation for formulating policy notes aimed at enhancing child protection measures within these educational institutions. Specifically, it aimed to answer the following questions: 10 1. What is the demographic profile of two groups of respondents in terms of: 1.1 School Heads; 1.1.1age; 1.1.2 sex ; 1.1.3. position; 1.1.4. highest educational attainment; and 1.1.5. length of service? 1.2 Teachers 1.2.1 age; 1.2.2 sex ; 1.2.3 position; 1.2.4 highest educational attainment; and 1.2.5 length of service? 2. What is the level of awareness regarding Child Protection Policies as assessed by the two-group of respondents in terms of: 2.1. familiarity with policy content; 2.2. understanding of reporting procedures; 2.3. awareness of support resources; 2.4. knowledge of signs and indicators; 2.5. legal and obligations; and 11 2.6. training of professional development? 3. What is the extent of challenges encountered by the respondents in the third district regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy as asessed by the two groups of respondents in terms of: 3.1. awareness and training; 3.2. resource constraints; 3.3. institutional culture and support; and 3.4. legal and reporting? 4. Is there a significant difference in the level of awareness when grouped according to demographic profile? 5. Is there a significant difference in the extent of challenges when group according to profile? 6. Is there a significant relationship between the level of awareness and the extent of challenges encountered by the respondents? 7. Based on the results of the study, what policy notes can be proposed to improve the implementation of Child Protection Policies in senior high schools under DepEd Quezon? Hypotheses 12 1. There is no significant difference in the level of awareness in the implementation of child protection policy when grouped according to demographic profiles. 2. There is no significant difference in the extent of challenges encountered in the implementation of child protection policies of respondents when grouped according to demographic profiles. 3. There is no significant relationship between the level of awareness of child protection policies and the extent of challenges encountered of respondents in their implementation in senior high schools of the Third District of Quezon. Scope and Delimitation of the Study This research focuses on examining the level of awareness and extent of challenges in the implementation of child protection policies in senior high schools specifically within the Third District of Quezon province, under the jurisdiction of the Department of Education (DepEd) Quezon. The study encompasses the academic year 2023-2024 as its timeline, aiming to capture the current state of policy implementation and awareness among school heads and teachers within this specified geographic area and timeframe. The Third District of Quezon province is chosen as the locale for this study due to its significance as a specific educational jurisdiction under DepEd Quezon. This district provides a focused and manageable scope for in-depth analysis of child 13 protection policy implementation within senior high schools, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and awareness levels in this specific area. Delimitations: Exclusion of Other Districts or Provinces: The study focuses solely on the Third District of Quezon province, excluding other districts or provinces within Quezon. Specific Educational Institutions: The research is limited to senior high schools under the jurisdiction of DepEd Quezon in the Third District, excluding other types of educational institutions. Timeline: The study does not extend beyond the academic year 2023-2024, ensuring a focused analysis of the specific period to capture current conditions. Participants: While the primary participants are school heads and teachers, the study does not include other stakeholders such as students, parents, or community members. Research Methodology: This study adopts a quantitative approach through survey questionnaires, excluding qualitative data collection methods such as interviews or focus groups. The rationale for choosing the third District of DepEd Quezon: Manageable Scope: The Third District provides a manageable scope for the study, allowing for indepth analysis within a specific geographic area. Specific Jurisdiction: DepEd Quezon's Third District represents a specific educational jurisdiction with its own policies and challenges, making it an ideal focus for understanding child protection policy implementation. Policy Relevance: The findings from this district can provide actionable insights and recommendations directly applicable to senior high schools 14 within this jurisdiction, aiding in policy formulation and improvement. Practicality: Limiting the study to one district ensures practicality in data collection, analysis, and reporting, leading to more focused and meaningful results. In summary, this study delves into the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies among school heads and teachers in senior high schools within the Third District of Quezon province during the academic year 2023-2024, using quantitative surveys as the primary research methodology. The choice of this specific locale ensures a focused examination of policy implementation within a manageable and policy-relevant context. Significance of the Study This study would be of great significance to the following: Policy-Makers and Authorities. The study's findings would be valuable to policymakers and authorities responsible for crafting and enforcing educational policies. The study can guide them in enhancing child protection policie s based on the realworld challenges and needs identified by stakeholders. Department of Education (DepEd) Quezon. The study's outcomes would be of interest to DepEd Quezon, as they will provide insights into the effectiveness of the child protection policies they have implemented. The findings can inform policy adjustments and resource allocation for improved policy execution. 15 Educational Institutions. The study will contributes to the quality of education within senior high schools by addressing challenges in policy implementation. Educational institutions can use the findings to refine their strategies, ultimately fostering a safer and more conducive learning environment. Research Community. The study will contribute to the body of knowledge surrounding child protection policies in educational contexts. The methodologies and insights will serve as a reference for future research endeavors in similar areas. Advocacy Groups and NGOs. Organizations focused on child protection and advocacy can use the study's findings to advocate for stronger policy enforcement, awareness campaigns, and resource allocation within educational institutions. Administrative Staff. The study's findings will be crucial for administrative staff who are responsible for executing and monitoring child protection policies. Their insights into challenges and strategies can drive improvements in policy implementation processes. Teachers. The study's outcomes will hold significance for teachers as they provide insights into the awareness, challenges, and strategies surrounding child protection policies. Teachers are integral in policy implementation, and understanding their perspectives can lead to better collaboration and more effective strategies for creating a safe learning environment. 16 Parents and Guardians. The study's insights into the effectiveness of child protection policies will directly impact parents and guardians, providing them with confidence in the safety of their children within the educational environment. Students: The study will directly impacts students by striving to enhance their safety, well-being, and overall learning experience within senior high schools. The findings can lead to a more secure environment, enabling students to focus on their studies and personal growth without the worry of safety concerns. Future Researchers. The study's findings can inspire and guide future researchers interested in exploring the dynamics of policy implementation, awareness, and effectiveness within educational settings. In essence, the significance of the study will transcend individual roles and extends to a collective effort to create a safer, more nurturing, and effective educational environment for students within senior high schools under DepEd Quezon. Definition of Terms To facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the study, the following key terms was employed and elucidated both conceptually and operationally, ensuring clarity and coherence for readers: Awareness denotes the understanding, knowledge, and familiarity of teachers, students, and administrative staff regarding the existence and provisions of 17 child protection policies. Awareness is measured by participants' ability to accurately articulate the key components, objectives, and procedures outlined in the child protection policies within their respective senior high schools. Challenges refer to the obstacles, barriers, and hindrances encountered by senior high schools in effectively implementing child protection policies, potentially affecting policy adherence and desired outcomes. Challenges are identified through qualitative data collection that highlights the specific difficulties faced by schools in executing child protection policies, such as resource constraints, lack of awareness, or inadequate training. Child Protection Policies encompass a set of regulations, guidelines, and protocols designed to safeguard the physical, emotional, and psychological wellbeing of students within educational institutions. In the context of this study, child protection policies refer to the specific rules, measures, and procedures established by DepEd Quezon to prevent and address issues such as child abuse, bullying, discrimination, and other threats to students' safety and well-being. Implementation effectiveness refers to the degree to which child protection policies are put into practice and achieve their intended goals within the senior high school environment. This study is assessed through an evaluation of the extent to which child protection policies are applied consistently, adhered to by stakeholders, and yield tangible outcomes in terms of student safety and well-being. 18 Perceived outcomes and impacts encompass stakeholders' subjective assessments, viewpoints, and impressions of stakeholders regarding the effects of child protection policies on student well-being, safety, and the overall school climate. Perceived outcomes and impacts are captured through qualitative data collected from participants' perspectives on whether the implemented policies have contributed to improved safety, reduced incidents, and enhanced the overall educational experience. Perception of effectiveness refers to the subjective judgment and viewpoints of school administrators, teachers, and students regarding the overall success of child protection policies in creating a safer and nurturing senior high school environment. Perception of effectiveness is assessed through qualitative interviews that elicit participants' opinions on the extent to which implemented policies have contributed to enhancing safety, well-being, and the overall educational experience. Policy implementation refers to the translation of child protection policies from written documents into concrete actions, practices, and interventions within the school environment. Policy implementation is gauged by assessing the degree to which child protection policies are integrated into daily school activities, routines, and interactions among teachers, students, and administrative staff. Strategies and approaches denote the deliberate methods, tactics, and initiatives employed by senior high schools to overcome challenges and enhance the 19 implementation of child protection policies. Strategies and approaches are explored qualitatively by capturing the innovative measures, interventions, and practices implemented by schools to address the identified challenges and ensure policy effectiveness. By providing both conceptual and operational definitions for these key terms, the study aims to ensure that readers have a clear and nuanced comprehension of the terminology used throughout the research. 21 Chapter 2 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES This section reviews pertinent literature and studies related to key aspects of child protection policies in the context of senior high schools. The exploration includes the awareness levels of teachers and students, the extent of policy implementation, variations in awareness, perceptions of outcomes and impacts, and the challenges faced by senior high schools. Understanding these dimensions is essential for developing comprehensive insights into the dynamics of child protection policy implementation within educational environments. The reviewed literature and studies contribute to a better understanding of the current landscape and provide a foundation for investigating child protection policies in senior high schools under the Department of Education (DepEd) Quezon. School heads and teachers’ level of awareness regarding the Implementation of Child Protection Policies In the global context, awareness among school heads and teachers regarding the implementation of child protection policies varies widely. Some regions prioritize comprehensive training and professional development programs to ensure educators are familiar with policy content, understand reporting procedures, and are aware of support resources. However, in other areas, there may be limited awareness due to 22 factors such as resource constraints, inadequate training opportunities, and varying levels of commitment to child protection issues (UNICEF, 2018). Internationally, there are diverse approaches to promoting awareness among school heads and teachers regarding child protection policies. In some countries, there is a strong emphasis on providing educators with detailed training on policy content, reporting procedures, and legal obligations. This includes regular workshops, seminars, and ongoing professional development initiatives. However, in other regions, awareness levels may be lower due to a lack of resources or a focus on other educational priorities (Save the Children, 2020). In the Philippines, awareness among school heads and teachers regarding the implementation of child protection policies can vary depending on factors such as access to training and professional development opportunities, as well as the level of support provided by education authorities. While there are initiatives to promote awareness and training on child protection policies, there may still be gaps in familiarity with policy content, understanding of reporting procedures, and awareness of support resources, particularly in rural areas or underserved communities (UNICEF Philippines, 2019). Within the third district of Quezon Province, awareness among school heads and teachers regarding the implementation of child protection policies may be influenced by local factors such as access to training and support resources, as well 23 as the level of engagement from education authorities. While efforts may be made to provide training and support, there may still be gaps in understanding reporting procedures, recognizing signs and indicators of abuse, and awareness of legal obligations, especially in smaller or more remote schools (DepEd Quezon Province, 2021). Several gaps may exist in awareness among school heads and teachers regarding the implementation of child protection policies: Familiarity with Policy Content: Some educators may lack a comprehensive understanding of the content and scope of child protection policies, leading to inconsistent implementation and enforcement. Understanding of Reporting Procedures: There may be variations in educators' understanding of the proper procedures for reporting suspected cases of child abuse or neglect, potentially leading to delays or inadequate responses. Awareness of Support Resources: Educators may not be fully aware of the support resources available to them and to students in cases of child protection concerns, resulting in underutilization of available services. Knowledge of Signs and Indicators: Not all educators may be adequately trained to recognize the signs and indicators of child abuse or neglect, leading to missed opportunities for early intervention. Awareness of Legal Obligations: Some educators may not fully grasp their legal obligations regarding child protection, including mandated reporting requirements and their role in safeguarding students' rights. Training and Professional Development: There may be disparities in the availability of training and professional 24 development opportunities for educators, leading to uneven levels of awareness and preparedness across schools and districts. The study on the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools in the third district of Quezon Province is significant for several reasons: Identifying and Addressing Gaps: By identifying gaps in awareness and understanding among school heads and teachers, the study can inform targeted interventions and capacity-building initiatives to enhance educators' knowledge and skills in implementing child protection policies effectively. Safeguarding Student Wellbeing: Improving awareness and implementation of child protection policies is essential for safeguarding the well-being and rights of students, creating a safe and conducive learning environment for all. Legal and Ethical Responsibilities: Ensuring that educators are aware of their legal and ethical responsibilities regarding child protection is crucial for compliance with national and international standards, fulfilling their duty of care to students. Equity in Education: Addressing disparities in awareness and training promotes equity in education by ensuring that all students, regardless of their background or geographic location, are protected from harm and abuse. Capacity Building: By supporting school heads and teachers in enhancing their knowledge and skills through targeted training and professional development, the study contributes to building a more competent and confident workforce capable of effectively addressing child protection issues. 25 Familiarity with Policy Content In a global context, familiarity with child protection policy content among school heads and teachers varies significantly. In some regions, there is a strong emphasis on comprehensive training programs that ensure educators are well-versed in policy content, including legal frameworks, reporting procedures, and protocols for handling child protection issues (UNICEF, 2018). However, in other areas, particularly those with limited resources or infrastructure, there may be gaps in familiarity due to inadequate training opportunities or a lack of prioritization of child protection issues (Save the Children, 2020). Internationally, there are diverse approaches to promoting familiarity with child protection policy content among school heads and teachers. Some countries prioritize ongoing professional development initiatives that provide educators with indepth knowledge of policy content, ensuring they understand their roles and responsibilities in safeguarding students (OECD, 2020). However, in other contexts, there may be challenges in disseminating policy content effectively, particularly in regions with linguistic or cultural barriers (UNICEF, 2018). In the Philippines, familiarity with child protection policy content among school heads and teachers varies depending on factors such as access to training and professional development opportunities. While there are initiatives to promote familiarity with policy content, including workshops and seminars, there may still be 26 gaps in understanding due to resource constraints or competing priorities (UNICEF Philippines, 2019). Additionally, variations in the implementation of child protection policies across different regions and school districts can impact the level of familiarity among educators. Within the third district of Quezon Province, familiarity with child protection policy content among school heads and teachers may be influenced by local factors such as access to training and support resources. While efforts may be made to provide comprehensive training on policy content, there may still be gaps in understanding due to logistical challenges or limited awareness of available resources (DepEd Quezon Province, 2021). Additionally, variations in the level of engagement from education authorities can impact the dissemination of policy content at the local level. Several gaps may exist in familiarity with child protection policy content among school heads and teachers: Limited Training Opportunities: Some educators may have limited access to training programs or professional development initiatives that provide comprehensive information on policy content. Resource Constraints: Schools and education authorities may face resource constraints that limit their ability to disseminate policy content effectively, including the provision of training materials and workshops. Competing Priorities: Child protection issues may compete with other educational priorities, leading to a lack of emphasis on familiarizing educators with policy content. Logistical Challenges: Logistical challenges, such as geographical 27 barriers or limited communication infrastructure, may hinder the dissemination of policy content to educators in remote areas. The study on the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools in the third district of Quezon Province is significant for several reasons: Identifying Knowledge Gaps: By assessing familiarity with policy content among school heads and teachers, the study can identify specific knowledge gaps and areas for improvement in training and professional development initiatives. Enhancing Policy Implementation: Improving familiarity with policy content is essential for effective policy implementation, as educators need to understand their roles and responsibilities in safeguarding students from harm and abuse. Ensuring Compliance: Familiarity with policy content ensures that educators are aware of their legal and ethical obligations regarding child protection, contributing to compliance with national and international standards. Creating a Safe Learning Environment: By promoting familiarity with policy content, the study contributes to creating a safe and conducive learning environment for students, where their well-being and rights are prioritized. Understanding of Reporting Procedures In a global context, the understanding of reporting procedures among school heads and teachers regarding child protection issues varies significantly. In some regions, there is a robust system in place that ensures educators are well-trained in 28 reporting procedures, including clear protocols for identifying, documenting, and reporting incidents of child abuse or neglect (UNICEF, 2017). However, in other areas, particularly those with limited resources or infrastructure, there may be gaps in understanding reporting procedures due to insufficient training or a lack of standardized protocols (Save the Children, 2019). Internationally, there are diverse approaches to promoting the understanding of reporting procedures among school heads and teachers. Some countries prioritize ongoing professional development initiatives that provide educators with comprehensive training on reporting protocols, ensuring they can effectively respond to child protection concerns (OECD, 2019). However, in other contexts, there may be challenges in disseminating information about reporting procedures, particularly in regions with linguistic or cultural barriers (UNICEF, 2017). In the Philippines, the understanding of reporting procedures among school heads and teachers varies depending on factors such as access to training and support resources. While there are initiatives to promote understanding of reporting procedures, including workshops and seminars, there may still be gaps in knowledge due to resource constraints or competing priorities (DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012). Additionally, variations in the implementation of reporting protocols across different regions and school districts can impact the level of understanding among educators. 29 Within the third district of Quezon Province, the understanding of reporting procedures among school heads and teachers may be influenced by local factors such as access to training and support resources. While efforts may be made to provide comprehensive training on reporting protocols, there may still be gaps in understanding due to logistical challenges or limited awareness of available resources (DepEd Quezon Province, 2021). Additionally, variations in the level of engagement from education authorities can impact the dissemination of information about reporting procedures at the local level. Several gaps may exist in the understanding of reporting procedures among school heads and teachers: Limited Training Opportunities: Some educators may have limited access to training programs or professional development initiatives that provide comprehensive information on reporting procedures. Resource Constraints: Schools and education authorities may face resource constraints that limit their ability to disseminate information about reporting procedures effectively, including the provision of training materials and workshops. Competing Priorities: Reporting procedures for child protection issues may compete with other educational priorities, leading to a lack of emphasis on understanding among educators. Logistical Challenges: Logistical challenges, such as geographical barriers or limited communication infrastructure, may hinder the dissemination of information about reporting procedures to educators in remote areas. 30 The study on the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools in the third district of Quezon Province is significant for several reasons: Identifying Knowledge Gaps: By assessing the understanding of reporting procedures among school heads and teachers, the study can identify specific knowledge gaps and areas for improvement in training and professional development initiatives. Enhancing Response to Child Protection Concerns: Improving the understanding of reporting procedures is essential for ensuring educators can effectively respond to child protection concerns, including identifying and reporting incidents of abuse or neglect. Ensuring Compliance: Understanding reporting procedures ensures that educators are aware of their legal and ethical obligations regarding child protection, contributing to compliance with national and international standards. Creating a Safe Learning Environment: By promoting understanding of reporting procedures, the study contributes to creating a safe and conducive learning environment for students, where their well-being and rights are prioritized. Awareness of Support Resources In a global context, the awareness of support resources among school heads and teachers regarding child protection policies varies significantly. Some regions have well-established support networks and resources available to educators, including hotlines, counseling services, and access to child protection experts (UNESCO, 2019). However, in other areas, particularly those affected by conflict or 31 humanitarian crises, there may be gaps in awareness due to limited access to resources and infrastructure (Save the Children, 2018). Internationally, there are diverse approaches to promoting awareness of support resources among school heads and teachers. Some countries prioritize the development of comprehensive support networks that provide educators with access to a range of resources, including training materials, peer support groups, and mental health services (OECD, 2020). However, in other contexts, there may be challenges in disseminating information about available resources, particularly in regions with limited communication infrastructure or linguistic barriers (UNICEF, 2017). In the Philippines, the awareness of support resources among school heads and teachers may vary depending on factors such as access to training and support initiatives. While there are efforts to promote awareness of support resources, including workshops and capacity-building programs, there may still be gaps in knowledge due to resource constraints or limited dissemination of information (DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012). Additionally, variations in the availability of support resources across different regions and school districts can impact the level of awareness among educators. Within the third district of Quezon Province, the awareness of support resources among school heads and teachers may be influenced by local factors such as access to training and support initiatives. While efforts may be made to provide 32 information about available resources, there may still be gaps in awareness due to logistical challenges or limited engagement from education authorities (DepEd Quezon Province, 2021). Additionally, variations in the level of community support and collaboration can impact the availability and awareness of support resources at the local level. Several gaps may exist in the awareness of support resources among school heads and teachers: Limited Dissemination: Some educators may have limited knowledge of available support resources due to challenges in disseminating information effectively, including resource constraints and communication barriers. Lack of Training: Educators may not receive adequate training or professional development on available support resources, leading to gaps in awareness and utilization. Resource Constraints: Schools and education authorities may face resource constraints that limit their ability to provide comprehensive information about support resources, including the provision of training materials and workshops. Community Engagement: Variations in community engagement and collaboration can impact the availability and awareness of support resources, particularly in remote or underserved areas. The study on the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools in the third district of Quezon Province is significant for several reasons: Identifying Knowledge Gaps: By assessing the awareness of support resources among school heads and teachers, the study can identify specific 33 gaps and areas for improvement in training and dissemination initiatives. Enhancing Access to Support: Improving awareness of support resources ensures that educators can access the necessary assistance and guidance to address child protection concerns effectively. Promoting Collaboration: Awareness of support resources facilitates collaboration between educators, community stakeholders, and child protection experts, contributing to a coordinated response to child protection issues. Ensuring Student Well-being: By promoting awareness of support resources, the study contributes to creating a supportive and safe learning environment for students, where their well-being and protection are prioritized. Knowledge of Signs and Indicators In a global context, the knowledge of signs and indicators of child protection issues among school heads and teachers varies depending on the availability of training and support resources. Some regions have comprehensive training programs that equip educators with the necessary knowledge to identify signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation among students (UNICEF, 2019). However, in areas with limited resources or access to professional development opportunities, there may be gaps in educators' understanding of the signs and indicators of child protection issues (Save the Children, 2017). Internationally, there are diverse approaches to promoting the knowledge of signs and indicators of child protection issues among educators. Some countries 34 have established protocols and guidelines that outline specific signs of abuse or neglect and provide training to school staff on how to recognize and respond to these indicators effectively (UNESCO, 2018). However, in other contexts, there may be challenges in disseminating information about signs and indicators due to cultural sensitivities or limited resources (OECD, 2020). In the Philippines, efforts have been made to enhance the knowledge of signs and indicators of child protection issues among school heads and teachers through training and capacity-building initiatives. The Department of Education (DepEd) provides guidelines and resources to help educators recognize and respond to signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation among students (DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012). However, there may still be gaps in understanding among educators, particularly in remote or underserved areas with limited access to training opportunities. Within the third district of Quezon Province, the knowledge of signs and indicators of child protection issues among school heads and teachers may vary depending on local initiatives and resources. Efforts may be made by local education authorities to provide training and support to educators on recognizing signs of abuse or neglect among students (DepEd Quezon Province, 2021). However, challenges such as limited access to training materials or insufficient capacity-building programs may result in gaps in understanding among educators. 35 Several gaps may exist in the knowledge of signs and indicators of child protection issues among school heads and teachers: Limited Training: Some educators may not receive adequate training on recognizing signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation among students, leading to gaps in their understanding of child protection issues. Resource Constraints: Schools and education authorities may face resource constraints that limit their ability to provide comprehensive training programs on child protection, resulting in gaps in educators' knowledge. Cultural Sensitivities: Cultural sensitivities or taboos surrounding child protection issues may hinder educators' ability to recognize and respond to signs of abuse or neglect among students, leading to gaps in their understanding. Lack of Awareness: Educators may not be fully aware of the available resources and support systems for addressing child protection issues, resulting in gaps in their knowledge of signs and indicators. The study on the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools in the third district of Quezon Province is significant for several reasons: Identifying Knowledge Gaps: By assessing the knowledge of signs and indicators among school heads and teachers, the study can identify specific gaps and areas for improvement in training and capacity-building initiatives. Enhancing Response: Improving educators' understanding of signs and indicators of child protection issues ensures that they can respond effectively to students' needs and provide appropriate support and intervention. Safeguarding Students: Increasing educators' knowledge of signs and indicators of child protection issues contributes to 36 creating a safe and supportive learning environment where students' well-being is prioritized. Preventing Harm: Educators who are knowledgeable about signs and indicators of child protection issues can play a crucial role in early detection and prevention, thereby preventing further harm to students. Legal Obligations in Child Protection Policies Recent literature underscores the importance of clear legal frameworks and obligations in the effective implementation of child protection policies. Legal obligations mandate that educators and school personnel report any suspicions of child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities. These legal requirements are essential in ensuring that child protection measures are enforced consistently and effectively within educational settings. For instance, Smith and Johnson (2023) highlight that well-defined legal obligations provide a critical foundation for safeguarding children's welfare in schools. These frameworks delineate the responsibilities of educators and outline the procedures for reporting and responding to child protection concerns. Furthermore, Jones et al. (2021) emphasize that legal obligations create a structured environment where accountability and adherence to child protection policies are mandatory, thereby reducing the likelihood of oversight and negligence. Training and Professional Development in Child Protection 37 The role of training and professional development in enhancing the implementation of child protection policies is well-documented. Effective training programs equip educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and respond to signs of abuse and neglect. This training often includes understanding legal obligations, recognizing indicators of abuse, and knowing the correct reporting procedures. Recent studies, such as Brown and Smith (2022), argue that ongoing professional development is crucial for maintaining high standards of child protection. Regular training ensures that educators remain updated on the latest policies, procedures, and best practices. Additionally, Anderson (2018) points out that continuous professional development fosters a culture of vigilance and responsiveness among school staff, which is vital for the early detection and intervention of child protection issues. Despite the extensive literature on legal obligations and training in child protection, several gaps remain. One significant gap is the inconsistency in the implementation of training programs across different educational settings. While some schools may have comprehensive training and professional development programs, others may lack the resources or commitment to provide regular and effective training. Another gap is the limited research on the impact of these training programs on the actual reporting and handling of child protection cases. While many 38 studies emphasize the importance of training, there is a need for more empirical research to assess the effectiveness of these programs in real-world scenarios. The current study on the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools in the Third District of Quezon Province aims to address these gaps. By focusing on a specific geographic area and educational level, this study seeks to provide a detailed understanding of how well child protection policies are implemented and the extent of awareness among educators. This study is necessary for several reasons: Localized Insights: Understanding the specific challenges and successes in the Third District of Quezon Province can inform more targeted and effective interventions. Evaluation of Training Programs: By assessing the current state of training and professional development, this study can identify strengths and areas for improvement, contributing to better-designed training programs. Legal Compliance: Evaluating the awareness of legal obligations among educators can highlight potential gaps in knowledge and compliance, ensuring that child protection policies are not only implemented but also adhered to rigorously. The present study is directly related to the existing literature on legal obligations and training in child protection policies. It aims to provide empirical data on the level of implementation and awareness of these policies among senior high school educators in a specific region. This data will contribute to the broader 39 understanding of how child protection policies are applied in different contexts and what improvements can be made to enhance their effectiveness. By addressing the identified gaps and focusing on the Third District of Quezon Province, this study will provide valuable insights that can inform policy makers, educational leaders, and practitioners, ultimately contributing to the creation of safer and more supportive educational environments for students. Extent of Challenges encountered in the implementation of the Child Protection Policy Implementing effective child protection policies in educational institutions, particularly in senior high schools, is crucial for safeguarding the well-being of students. However, several challenges hinder the successful implementation of these policies. This literature review examines the barriers related to awareness and training, resource constraints, institutional culture and support, as well as legal and reporting issues within the context of the third district of Quezon Province. By exploring these challenges and their relationship to the level of implementation and awareness, this review aims to provide insights into the gaps that need to be addressed to enhance child protection efforts in senior high schools. Awareness and Training: The lack of awareness and training among stakeholders poses a significant obstacle to effectively implementing child protection policies. Smith et al. (2018) stress the importance of comprehensive training 40 programs for educators and relevant personnel, yet Jones et al. (2019) found that only 30% of educators in rural areas received formal training on child protection policies. This dearth of training contributes to inconsistencies in policy application and may result in a failure to identify and report cases of abuse or neglect. Resource Constraints: Resource constraints, including funding shortages and inadequate staffing, present significant challenges in implementing child protection policies. Brown and Thompson (2020) emphasize the necessity of allocating sufficient resources to train staff, conduct screenings, and provide support services to vulnerable children and families. However, Garcia and Martinez (2019) highlight that many districts struggle to meet these needs, leading to gaps in protection and support for at-risk children. Institutional Culture and Support: The organizational culture within institutions significantly influences the implementation of child protection policies. Johnson et al. (2019) underscore the importance of supportive leadership and clear protocols in fostering a culture committed to child welfare. Conversely, Roberts and Wilson (2018) warn that a culture of silence or indifference can undermine efforts to address child protection concerns. Legal and Reporting Issues: Legal complexities and reporting procedures pose significant challenges in implementing child protection policies. Miller and Smith (2019) highlight inconsistencies in reporting requirements across jurisdictions, 41 leading to confusion among mandated reporters and delays in intervention. Additionally, concerns about confidentiality and potential repercussions can deter individuals from reporting suspected cases of abuse or neglect (Garcia et al., 2021). In summary, the literature review sheds light on the key challenges hindering the implementation of child protection policies in senior high schools within the third district of Quezon Province. These challenges, encompassing awareness and training gaps, resource constraints, institutional culture, and legal issues, underscore the need for targeted interventions and support to enhance child protection efforts. Awareness and Training Awareness and training are essential components for the effective implementation of child protection policies in educational settings, particularly in senior high schools. A comprehensive literature review reveals several studies that highlight the significance of awareness and training in this context. Smith et al. (2018) emphasized the critical importance of comprehensive training programs for educators and relevant stakeholders. They argued that such training is necessary to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills required to identify and respond to cases of abuse or neglect effectively. However, despite the recognized importance of training, Jones et al. (2019) found that only 30% of educators in rural areas received formal training on child protection policies. This lack 42 of training indicates a significant gap in the awareness and preparedness of educators to handle child protection issues. The gap in awareness and training is particularly significant in the context of the study entitled "Level of Implementation and Awareness of Child Protection Policies in Senior High Schools in the Third District of Quezon Province." The study aims to assess the current level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies among educators and staff in senior high schools. The identified gap in awareness and training directly relates to this study, as it suggests that educators may not have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively implement child protection policies in schools within the third district of Quezon Province. Moreover, the lack of awareness and training poses a significant challenge to the successful implementation of child protection policies. Without adequate training, educators may struggle to recognize signs of abuse or neglect, leading to inconsistencies in policy application and potentially putting students at risk. Therefore, addressing the gap in awareness and training is crucial for improving the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools in the third district of Quezon Province. Resource Constraints 43 Resource constraints, including funding shortages and inadequate staffing, are significant challenges faced in the implementation of child protection policies within educational settings such as senior high schools. Several studies have shed light on the implications of these constraints and their impact on policy implementation. Brown and Thompson (2020) underscored the importance of allocating sufficient resources to support the implementation of child protection policies. They emphasized the need for adequate funding to train staff, conduct screenings, and provide support services to vulnerable children and families. However, Garcia and Martinez (2019) highlighted the reality that many districts struggle to meet these needs due to resource limitations. This inadequacy in resources leads to gaps in protection and support for at-risk children. The gap in resource allocation and its implications are significant in the context of the study entitled "Level of Implementation and Awareness of Child Protection Policies in Senior High Schools in the Third District of Quezon Province." This study aims to assess the current level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies among educators and staff in senior high schools. The identified gap in resource constraints directly relates to this study, as it suggests that limited resources may hinder schools' ability to effectively train staff and provide necessary support services to implement child protection policies in schools within the third district of Quezon Province. 44 Moreover, the significance of addressing resource constraints lies in its direct impact on the effectiveness of child protection efforts. Insufficient resources may lead to compromised implementation of policies, leaving students vulnerable to abuse and neglect. Therefore, addressing resource constraints is crucial for improving the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools in the third district of Quezon Province. Institutional Culture and Support Institutional culture and support play a pivotal role in the successful implementation of child protection policies within educational institutions. Various studies have examined the influence of organizational culture on policy implementation and the significance of supportive environments in safeguarding children. Johnson et al. (2019) emphasized the importance of supportive leadership and clear protocols in fostering a culture committed to child welfare. They highlighted that institutions with a strong commitment to child welfare are more effective in safeguarding children. Conversely, Roberts and Wilson (2018) warned that a culture of silence or indifference can undermine efforts to address child protection concerns. Institutions lacking supportive leadership and clear protocols may fail to prioritize child protection, leading to gaps in policy implementation. 45 The gap in institutional culture and support is substantial in the context of the study entitled "Level of Implementation and Awareness of Child Protection Policies in Senior High Schools in the Third District of Quezon Province." This study aims to assess the current level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies among educators and staff in senior high schools. The identified gap in institutional culture and support directly relates to this study, as it suggests that the absence of supportive leadership and clear protocols may hinder efforts to effectively implement child protection policies in schools within the third district of Quezon Province. Moreover, the significance of addressing institutional culture and support lies in its direct impact on policy implementation effectiveness. Institutions with a supportive culture are better equipped to prioritize child welfare and ensure consistent policy application. Therefore, fostering a culture committed to child protection is crucial for enhancing the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools in the third district of Quezon Province. Legal and Reporting Legal complexities and reporting procedures pose significant challenges in the implementation of child protection policies within educational institutions, including senior high schools. Several studies have explored the legal framework surrounding 46 child protection and the implications of reporting procedures on policy implementation. Miller and Smith (2019) highlighted inconsistencies in reporting requirements across jurisdictions, leading to confusion among mandated reporters and delays in intervention. They emphasized the need for clarity and consistency in reporting procedures to ensure timely and effective responses to cases of abuse or neglect. Additionally, concerns about confidentiality and potential repercussions can deter individuals from reporting suspected cases of abuse or neglect (Garcia et al., 2021). These legal and reporting challenges can hinder efforts to safeguard children and enforce child protection policies. The gap in legal and reporting issues is significant in the context of the study entitled "Level of Implementation and Awareness of Child Protection Policies in Senior High Schools in the Third District of Quezon Province." This study aims to assess the current level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies among educators and staff in senior high schools. The identified gap in legal complexities and reporting challenges directly relates to this study, as confusion and concerns about reporting procedures may deter individuals from effectively implementing child protection policies in schools within the third district of Quezon Province. 47 Moreover, the significance of addressing legal and reporting issues lies in its direct impact on policy implementation effectiveness. Inconsistencies in reporting requirements and concerns about confidentiality can undermine the timely identification and intervention in cases of abuse or neglect. Therefore, addressing legal and reporting challenges is crucial for improving the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools in the third district of Quezon Province. In summary, implementing effective child protection policies in senior high schools within the third district of Quezon Province presents numerous challenges, encompassing awareness and training gaps, resource constraints, institutional culture issues, and legal/reporting complexities. One significant challenge is the lack of awareness and formal training among stakeholders, which may result in inconsistencies in policy application and the failure to identify/report cases of abuse or neglect. Insufficient resources, including funding and staffing shortages, also impede schools' ability to provide necessary training and support services, leading to gaps in protection for at-risk children. Moreover, the absence of supportive leadership and clear protocols within institutions undermines efforts to address child protection concerns, thereby affecting the effectiveness of policy implementation. Additionally, legal complexities and reporting procedures pose significant obstacles, with inconsistencies in reporting requirements and concerns about confidentiality often deterring individuals from reporting cases of abuse or neglect. Consequently, this can 48 lead to delays in intervention and compromised safeguarding efforts. Addressing these challenges is paramount for enhancing the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools. Targeted interventions and support are crucial to bridging the identified gaps and ensuring the safety and well-being of students in the third district of Quezon Province. Significant difference in the level of Child Protection Policy implementation according to demographic profiles In a global context, the implementation of child protection policies varies significantly according to demographic profiles of school heads and teachers. Factors such as cultural norms, socioeconomic status, educational background, and years of experience can influence the level of implementation (UNICEF, 2018). For instance, in regions with higher levels of education and awareness, implementation may be more robust due to a better understanding of child protection issues among educators (Save the Children, 2020). Conversely, in areas with limited resources and lower levels of education, implementation may be hindered by a lack of awareness and training (UNICEF, 2018). Internationally, demographic profiles of school heads and teachers play a significant role in the implementation of child protection policies. Studies have shown that educators with higher levels of education and training are more likely to effectively implement policies due to their enhanced understanding of child protection 49 issues (OECD, 2020). Additionally, cultural factors and community norms can influence the willingness of educators to address child protection concerns (UNESCO, 2019). In the Philippines, demographic profiles such as educational attainment, socioeconomic status, and geographic location can impact the implementation of child protection policies among school heads and teachers. Educators in urban areas or those with access to higher levels of education and training may demonstrate higher levels of policy implementation compared to their counterparts in rural or underserved areas (UNICEF Philippines, 2019). Additionally, variations in the level of support from education authorities can influence implementation efforts (DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012). In the third district of Quezon Province, demographic profiles of school heads and teachers may significantly impact the level of child protection policy implementation. Factors such as access to training, support resources, and engagement from education authorities can vary based on demographic profiles, leading to differences in implementation effectiveness (DepEd Quezon Province, 2021). For example, educators with higher levels of education and training may demonstrate better implementation due to their enhanced understanding of policy requirements, while those in remote or underserved areas may face challenges due to limited resources and support. The study on the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools in the third district of Quezon Province may encounter 50 gaps related to the demographic profiles of school heads and teachers. These gaps may include variations in implementation effectiveness based on factors such as educational attainment, years of experience, geographic location, and access to training and support resources. Identifying these demographic-related gaps is crucial for understanding disparities in policy implementation and developing targeted interventions to address them. Understanding the significant difference in the level of child protection policy implementation according to demographic profiles of school heads and teachers in the third district of Quezon Province is essential for the overall study. By identifying demographic-related gaps in implementation effectiveness, the study can provide insights into the factors influencing policy implementation and inform targeted interventions to improve awareness and implementation among educators. Addressing these demographic-related gaps is crucial for enhancing the overall effectiveness of child protection policies in senior high schools and creating a safer learning environment for all students in the third district of Quezon Province. The discussion above highlights the significant role of demographic profiles in influencing the implementation of child protection policies at various levels: globally, internationally, within the Philippines, and specifically in the third district of Quezon Province. Factors such as cultural norms, socioeconomic status, educational background, years of experience, and access to resources play crucial roles in determining the effectiveness of policy implementation by school heads and 51 teachers. Globally and internationally, disparities in education levels and awareness, along with cultural factors, impact the implementation of child protection policies among educators. In the Philippines, demographic profiles such as educational attainment, socioeconomic status, and geographic location also influence policy implementation, with educators in urban areas or those with higher levels of education demonstrating better implementation compared to their counterparts in rural or underserved areas. In the local context of the third district of Quezon Province, demographic profiles of school heads and teachers significantly impact policy implementation due to variations in access to training, support resources, and engagement from education authorities. These factors lead to differences in implementation effectiveness, with educators in remote or underserved areas facing challenges due to limited resources and support. Identifying demographic-related gaps in policy implementation effectiveness is crucial for understanding disparities and developing targeted interventions to improve awareness and implementation among educators. Addressing these gaps is essential for enhancing the overall effectiveness of child protection policies in senior high schools and creating a safer learning environment for all students in the third district of Quezon Province. Significant relationship between the level of awareness and the extent of challenges Child Protection Policy implementation 52 In a global context, there exists a significant relationship between the level of awareness and the extent of challenges in implementing child protection policies among school heads and teachers. Research indicates that awareness levels impact the effectiveness of policy implementation, with higher levels of awareness correlating with better implementation outcomes (UNICEF, 2018). Conversely, lower levels of awareness among educators are associated with increased challenges in policy implementation, including difficulties in recognizing child protection issues and understanding reporting procedures (Save the Children, 2020). Internationally, the relationship between awareness and challenges in child protection policy implementation is evident. Studies have shown that educators with higher levels of awareness regarding child protection issues are more likely to encounter fewer challenges in implementing policies effectively (OECD, 2020). Conversely, lower levels of awareness among educators contribute to challenges such as inadequate reporting of child protection concerns and insufficient utilization of support resources (UNESCO, 2019). In the Philippines, the relationship between awareness and challenges in child protection policy implementation among school heads and teachers is significant. Educators with a higher level of awareness about child protection policies are better equipped to address challenges such as limited access to training and support resources (UNICEF Philippines, 2019). Conversely, lower levels of awareness may 53 lead to challenges such as inconsistencies in policy implementation and difficulties in identifying and reporting child protection issues (DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012). In the third district of Quezon Province, the relationship between the level of awareness and the extent of challenges in implementing child protection policies among school heads and teachers is particularly pronounced. Educators with a higher level of awareness about child protection policies are more likely to navigate challenges such as limited access to training materials and workshops, as well as logistical constraints (DepEd Quezon Province, 2021). Conversely, lower levels of awareness may exacerbate challenges such as gaps in understanding reporting procedures and recognizing signs of child protection issues. The study on the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools in the third district of Quezon Province may encounter gaps related to the relationship between awareness and challenges in policy implementation. These gaps may include variations in awareness levels among school heads and teachers, leading to differences in the extent of challenges faced in implementing child protection policies. Identifying these gaps is crucial for understanding the nuances of policy implementation and developing targeted interventions to address challenges stemming from awareness gaps. Understanding the significant relationship between the level of awareness and the extent of challenges in implementing child protection policies among school 54 heads and teachers in the third district of Quezon Province is essential for the overall study. By exploring this relationship, the study can provide insights into the factors influencing policy implementation effectiveness and inform targeted interventions to improve awareness among educators. Addressing awareness-related gaps is vital for enhancing the overall implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools and fostering a safer learning environment for all students in the third district of Quezon Province. The discussion highlights the significant relationship between the level of awareness and the extent of challenges in implementing child protection policies among school heads and teachers in a global, international, Philippine, and local context, particularly focusing on the third district of Quezon Province. Globally, research suggests that higher awareness levels correlate with better implementation outcomes, while lower awareness levels pose challenges such as difficulty in recognizing child protection issues. Internationally and in the Philippines, educators with higher awareness are better equipped to navigate challenges, including limited access to resources and support. In the local perspective of the third district of Quezon Province, educators with higher awareness can address challenges such as logistical constraints, while lower awareness exacerbates issues like gaps in reporting procedures. The study may encounter gaps related to variations in awareness levels among educators, which are crucial to address for effective policy implementation. Understanding this relationship is essential for informing targeted 55 interventions to improve awareness and enhance the implementation of child protection policies, ultimately fostering a safer learning environment for students in the third district of Quezon Province. Policy enhancements in the implementation of Child Protection Policies in senior high schools under DepEd Quezon In a global context, policy enhancements in the implementation of child protection policies in senior high schools are crucial for ensuring the safety and wellbeing of students. Various countries have implemented policy enhancements such as comprehensive training programs for school heads and teachers, clear reporting procedures, and access to support resources (UNICEF, 2019). These enhancements aim to strengthen the capacity of educators to recognize and respond to child protection issues effectively. Internationally, efforts to enhance the implementation of child protection policies in senior high schools involve a combination of legislative measures, training initiatives, and resource allocation. For example, some countries have mandated regular training sessions on child protection for educators and established multidisciplinary teams to handle reported cases (UNESCO, 2021). Additionally, international organizations collaborate with governments to develop guidelines and frameworks for policy implementation (Save the Children, 2018). 56 In the Philippines, particularly under DepEd Quezon, policy enhancements in the implementation of child protection policies in senior high schools focus on strengthening reporting mechanisms, providing continuous training and professional development opportunities for educators, and improving access to support services for students (DepEd Quezon Province, n.d.). These enhancements align with national child protection laws and regulations and aim to create a safer learning environment for students across Quezon Province. In the third district of Quezon Province, policy enhancements in the implementation of child protection policies in senior high schools under DepEd Quezon may include tailored training programs for school heads and teachers, the establishment of local support networks, and the implementation of standardized reporting protocols (DepEd Quezon Province, 2019). These enhancements are designed to address specific challenges faced by educators in the local context and ensure consistent adherence to child protection policies. The study on the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools in the third district of Quezon Province may encounter gaps related to the effectiveness of policy enhancements in addressing challenges faced by school heads and teachers. These gaps may include inconsistencies in the implementation of policy enhancements, limited access to training and support resources, and gaps in awareness among educators regarding the availability of these enhancements (UNICEF, n.d.; Save the Children, n.d.). 57 Understanding the policy enhancements in the implementation of child protection policies in senior high schools under DepEd Quezon is essential for the overall study. By examining the effectiveness of these enhancements, the study can identify gaps and challenges in policy implementation, inform targeted interventions to address these gaps, and ultimately improve the overall awareness and implementation of child protection policies among educators in the third district of Quezon Province. Addressing these gaps is crucial for creating a safer learning environment for all students and ensuring their well-being. Policy enhancements in the implementation of child protection policies in senior high schools are crucial globally, internationally, and in the Philippines, particularly in the third district of Quezon Province. These enhancements aim to strengthen the capacity of educators to recognize and respond to child protection issues effectively through comprehensive training programs, clear reporting procedures, and improved access to support resources. While efforts at the international and national levels involve legislative measures and collaboration with organizations, local perspectives focus on tailored training programs and the establishment of local support networks. However, gaps related to the effectiveness of policy enhancements may exist, including inconsistencies in implementation, limited access to resources, and gaps in awareness among educators. Addressing these gaps is significant for improving the overall awareness and implementation of 58 child protection policies, ultimately creating a safer learning environment for all students. Synthesis The demographic profile of school heads and teachers in senior high schools within Quezon Province's Third District varies significantly across dimensions such as age, sex, position, highest educational attainment, and length of service (Anderson, 2018; Botswania, 2019; Brown and Smith, 2022; Del Rosario, 2018; De Mesa, 2020; Garcia, 2019; Gonzalo, 2019; Jones et al., 2021; Quezon Provincial Department of Education, 2021; Save the Children, 2017, 2018, 2019; Smith et al., 2018, 2020; Tucson, 2021; UNESCO, 2018, 2019; World Bank, 2018). These profiles are influenced by cultural norms, educational policies, and local administrative practices. Understanding these variations is crucial for addressing disparities in awareness among educators, implementation challenges due to resource constraints and training gaps, and issues with policy adherence arising from competing priorities or administrative barriers (Anderson, 2018; Brown and Smith, 2022; Garcia, 2019; Quezon Provincial Department of Education, 2021; Smith et al., 2018). By identifying and addressing these gaps, the study aims to safeguard student well-being, ensure compliance with child protection standards, promote educational equity, and support effective policy implementation (Botswania, 2019; Del Rosario, 2018; De Mesa, 2020; Gonzalo, 2019; UNESCO, 2019; World Bank, 2018). In summary, this study serves as a vital initiative to enhance the awareness and implementation of child protection 59 policies in senior high schools, fostering a safer and more supportive learning environment for all students (Save the Children, 2017, 2018, 2019; UNICEF, 2017, 2018, 2019; OECD, 2019, 2020). The implementation of effective child protection policies in senior high schools within Quezon Province's Third District faces significant challenges across various dimensions, as highlighted by studies from multiple authors. Smith et al. (2018, 2020) stress the critical need for comprehensive training to equip educators with necessary skills, contrasting sharply with Garcia and Martinez's (2019) findings on funding inadequacies that hinder support services. Johnson et al. (2019) underscore the pivotal role of supportive institutional culture, while Miller and Smith (2019) emphasize legal ambiguities that impede timely intervention. Addressing these multifaceted challenges is vital to enhancing policy implementation and effectively safeguarding students (Anderson, 2018; Brown and Smith, 2022; Del Rosario, 2018; De Mesa, 2020; Gonzalo, 2019; Quezon Provincial Department of Education, 2021; Tucson, 2021; UNESCO, 2018, 2019). Policy enhancements in child protection policies' implementation in senior high schools, both globally and locally in Quezon Province's Third District under DepEd Quezon, are crucial for ensuring student safety and well-being. Studies by OECD (2020) and UNESCO (2019) underscore the importance of comprehensive training and clear reporting procedures in bolstering policy effectiveness. However, challenges related to awareness gaps among educators, as highlighted by Save the Children (2017, 2018, 2019) and UNICEF 60 (2017, 2018, 2019), underscore the need for targeted interventions. In Quezon Province, policy enhancements focus on tailored training programs and improved support services, aligned with national regulations (DepEd Quezon Province, 2019). Addressing gaps in policy implementation effectiveness is crucial for creating a safer learning environment for students across Quezon Province's Third District (Botswania, 2019; Garcia, 2019; Jones et al., 2021; Quezon Provincial Department of Education, 2021). This synthesis highlights the critical role of understanding demographic profiles, training needs, resource allocation, and institutional culture in effective child protection policy implementation. By integrating insights from various authors, the study aims to inform targeted interventions that enhance awareness, improve implementation efficacy, and ultimately foster safer educational environments for students in Quezon Province's Third District. Chapter 3 METHODOLOGY This chapter introduces the research methods and steps. In carrying out this study, researchers followed the research design, population sampling as well as the survey tools, data collection process and statistical processing of data. Research Design The study employed a pure quantitative research methodology, using a structured survey to collect precise data on the demographic profile of respondents, their awareness of child protection policies, and the challenges encountered in policy implementation. Led by the study's proponents, the survey consisted of closed-ended questions to ensure consistency and facilitate standardized data collection. Descriptive statistics, frequency analysis, comparative analysis, and correlation analysis were utilized to summarize demographic profiles, identify prevalent challenges, compare responses across demographic groups, and explore correlations between factors. This rigorous approach aimed to provide evidencebased insights into child protection policy implementation in senior high schools in Quezon Province's Third District, guiding future policy interventions. Population and Sampling The study focused on senior high school administrators and teachers in the third district of Quezon, Philippines, falling under the jurisdiction of DepEd Quezon. 77 The total population consisted of 758 teachers and 50 school heads, totaling 808 individuals. To ensure a representative sample and address research complexity, a random sampling technique was employed. This method involved randomly selecting participants from the entire population, providing each member an equal chance of inclusion. Schools were randomly chosen to ensure diversity based on size, geographic location (urban, suburban, rural), and student demographics. Within selected schools, administrators and teachers were randomly sampled. The sample size of approximately 278 respondents was determined using statistical calculations to achieve a 5% margin of error and 95% confidence level, ensuring both diversity and statistical rigor in capturing perspectives on child protection policy implementation across senior high schools in Quezon's third district. Respondents of the Study The study included school administrators and teachers from senior high schools within the third district of Quezon under the jurisdiction of the Department of Education (DepEd) Quezon. These individuals were crucial for understanding the implementation and impact of child protection policies within the educational setting. The breakdown of the number of respondents for each category within the sample was as follows: approximately 50 school heads and 758 teachers. These numbers were chosen based on the significance of their roles in policy implementation and the need for a diverse representation of viewpoints within the 78 study. The total sample size was approximately 808 individuals, with 50 school heads and 758 teachers. However, the actual sample size varied based on research constraints and considerations. In summary, the primary respondents in this study were school administrators and teachers from senior high schools in the third district of Quezon under DepEd, totaling approximately 808 individuals. Their inclusion ensured a comprehensive examination of policy implementation experiences and challenges from the perspectives of those directly involved in the educational system. Research Instrument The study employed a researcher-developed survey instrument to gather data on the awareness levels and challenges faced by school heads and teachers in implementing child protection policies across senior high schools in Quezon's Third District. The survey comprised three main parts designed to capture comprehensive insights: Firstly, the demographic profile section collected information on respondents' age, sex, position, highest educational attainment, and length of service. This demographic data provided contextual understanding essential for interpreting responses. Secondly, the section on awareness of child protection policies utilized a Likert scale ranging from 1 (Strongly Disagree) to 4 (Strongly Agree). This part aimed to gauge how familiar school administrators and teachers were with the content and provisions of child protection policies, highlighting areas 79 where additional training or clarification might be necessary. Thirdly, respondents rated the challenges they encountered in implementing child protection policies on a scale from 1 to 4, where higher scores indicated greater perceived difficulty. This section identified and assessed the specific obstacles faced by educators, offering insights into resource needs, institutional support, and policy refinement. Prior to survey administration, the instrument underwent rigorous validation and testing processes. Content validation ensured the questionnaire's relevance, clarity, and appropriateness under the guidance of experts in child protection policies and survey methodology. Pilot testing with a small sample group assessed the questionnaire's clarity, comprehensibility, and length, leading to refinements to improve its effectiveness. Reliability testing, specifically through measures like Cronbach's alpha coefficient, verified the internal consistency of scales within the survey instrument, enhancing its reliability in capturing consistent data. Structured to systematically collect responses via Likert scales, this quantitative approach aimed to provide robust data for analysis. The study aimed to generate insights that inform policy recommendations and improvements in child protection policy implementation within senior high schools in Quezon's Third District, thereby contributing environments. to enhanced protection measures and educational 80 Data Gathering Procedure The data gathering procedures for this study utilized a quantitative approach, focusing on collecting structured survey questionnaire responses from school heads and teachers in the third district of Quezon. These questionnaires included Likert scale questions and multiple-choice items designed to assess respondents' awareness, adherence, and perceived outcomes regarding child protection policies. A pilot testing phase was conducted initially to gather feedback and refine the instrument accordingly. The sampling technique employed was random, considering factors such as school size and demographic diversity to ensure a representative sample. Survey questionnaires were distributed in digital platforms, following formal approval obtained from relevant authorities, including the Division Office of DepEd Quezon and district supervisors. Ethical considerations were prioritized throughout the process, with informed consent obtained from all participants and measures implemented to ensure confidentiality and privacy. Formal letters of approval were secured from the respective school heads of selected senior high schools to comply with institutional protocols. Data entry was conducted meticulously, and the analysis utilized descriptive statistics such as means, percentages, and frequency distributions. 81 Throughout these comprehensive procedures, the study aimed to provide reliable insights into the implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools under DepEd Quezon. Statistical Analysis To analyze the data comprehensively, the researcher employed several statistical methods. Firstly, for the demographic profile analysis, descriptive statistics such as mean and percentages were utilized to summarize and describe key respondent characteristics, including age, sex, position, highest educational attainment, and length of service. Next, to assess the level of awareness and the extent of challenges faced, descriptive statistics were again employed. This involved summarizing survey responses across various aspects of awareness on a scale from 1 to 4, providing insights into how well-informed respondents were about child protection policies and their associated challenges. To investigate if there were significant differences in awareness levels and challenges faced across different demographic profiles, the researcher utilized OneWay ANOVA (Analysis of Variance). This statistical test was appropriate for comparing means among three or more independent groups, such as age groups, genders, or educational levels. It helped determine whether variations in demographic factors significantly influenced the level of awareness and the severity of challenges encountered by respondents. 82 Finally, to explore the relationship between awareness and challenges, the researcher employed Pearson correlation coefficient analysis. This method examined whether there was a linear relationship between the level of awareness about child protection policies and the extent of challenges reported by respondents. This analysis provided insights into how well-prepared awareness levels were in mitigating the challenges associated with policy implementation. By employing these statistical methods, the researcher gained a comprehensive understanding of the demographic profiles, awareness levels, challenges, and their interrelationships among respondents involved in implementing child protection policies. These insights are crucial for developing targeted interventions and policy enhancements aimed at improving overall effectiveness and support in senior high schools within the Third District of Quezon Province. Chapter 4 PRESENTATION, INTERPRETATION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA This chapter presents the findings of the study and provides a detailed discussion on the level of awareness and extent of challenges of Child Protection Policies in senior high schools in the third district of Quezon in selected public school heads and teachers. The results are based on the analysis of survey data collected from school heads and teachers, and the interpretation of these findings is supported by statistical analysis. This chapter aims to elucidate how the CPP influences key educational outcomes and identify the challenges encountered in its implementation. The discussion also connects these findings with existing literature to provide a comprehensive understanding of the program's impact. 84 Part 1. Profile of Respondents Table 1 Demographic profile of the School Head in terms of Age Age F % 21-26 0 0 27-32 2 4.8 33-38 25 59.5 39-44 5 11.9 45-50 2 4.8 51-56 5 11.9 57-62 2 4.7 ≥63 1 2.4 Total 42 100.0 Based on Table 1, the demographic profile of School Heads in terms of age shows that the age group with the highest representation is 33-38 years, accounting for 59.5% (25 individuals) of the total 42 respondents. This is followed by the 39-44 age group at 11.9% (5 individuals) and the 51-56 age group, also at 11.9% (5 individuals). The least represented groups are those aged 21-26, making up 0% (0 individuals), and those aged 63 and above, constituting 2.4% (1 individual). Additionally, the 27-32 and 45-50 age groups each comprise 4.8% (2 individuals), while the 57-62 age group represents 4.7% (2 individuals). The predominance of respondents in the 33-38 age group suggests that many participants are in their early middle age, likely implying a solid combination of experience and active involvement 85 in senior high school education. This group may have a significant understanding of child protection policies due to their years of service and active roles in school administration. Literature supports this, indicating that educators in their 30s often take on more administrative responsibilities and are deeply involved in policy implementation (Smith, 2020). The limited representation of those aged 63 and above suggests fewer older educators are participating, potentially due to retirement or less demanding roles. This could affect the findings, as older educators might offer valuable, differing perspectives on child protection policies. Studies indicate that older educators may have traditional views, which could impact the implementation of modern policies (Jones & Brown, 2021). The age distribution data suggests that educators in the 3338 age group, who form the bulk of the respondents, will significantly influence the study's results. Their experiences and attitudes towards child protection policies will shape the overall findings, while the underrepresentation of older educators might leave their perspectives underexplored. Recent studies highlight the importance of considering demographic profiles in policy implementation research. Parker and Thomas (2022) found that age significantly influences how educators perceive and implement child protection policies, with younger educators being more adaptable to new policies and older educators relying on established practices. In summary, the age distribution of respondents emphasizes the dominance of early middle-aged educators, potentially reflecting their significant role in policy 86 implementation. The underrepresentation of older educators suggests a gap in capturing their comprehensive views. These findings align with current research, highlighting the need for strategies that consider the diverse demographic profiles of educators to enhance child protection policy implementation and awareness in senior high schools. Table 2 Demographic profile of the School Heads in terms of Sex Sex F % Male 15 35.7 Female 27 64.3 Total 42 100.0 Based on Table 2, the demographic profile of School Heads in terms of sex shows that the respondents are comprised of 35.7% males (15 individuals) and 64.3% females (27 individuals), out of a total of 42 respondents. This distribution indicates that females are more represented than males in the study, which ensures that both genders have substantial input in the research. The predominance of female respondents may suggest a greater involvement or willingness among females to participate in studies related to educational policies and child protection. This trend is supported by research indicating that women often play significant roles in educational settings and are actively engaged in policy discussions 87 (Morris & Daniel, 2019). The implications of this gender distribution are significant. With a balanced representation, the study can provide insights into how both male and female educators perceive and implement child protection policies. This is important because gender perspectives can influence how policies are interpreted and applied. For instance, studies have shown that female educators might be more attuned to the nuances of child protection due to their roles in nurturing and caregiving (Taylor & Wasicsko, 2020). Recent literature emphasizes the importance of gender balance in studies related to education and policy implementation. For example, Johnson and Buffington (2021) found that gender-diverse groups are more likely to consider a broader range of issues and solutions in policy implementation. Additionally, balanced gender representation helps in understanding different perspectives and creating more effective and inclusive policies. In summary, the sex distribution of respondents, as shown in Table 2, highlights a significant representation of both male and female educators, which is crucial for an unbiased analysis of child protection policies. The higher percentage of female respondents aligns with existing literature on gender roles in education. These findings underscore the importance of considering gender diversity in studies to enhance the implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools. Table 3 88 Demographic profile of the School Heads in terms of Position Position F % Head Teacher/OIC/TIC 7 16.7 Principal 1-4 35 83.3 Total 42 100 Based on Table 3, the demographic profile of School Heads in terms of position shows that the majority of respondents, 83.3% (35 individuals), hold the position of Principal (Principal 1-4), while 16.7% (7 individuals) are Head Teachers/OICs/TICs. This distribution indicates that the majority of the respondents are in higher-level administrative roles. The high representation of Principals suggests that a significant portion of the respondents are involved in the strategic management and overall enforcement of policies within their schools. Literature suggests that individuals in these roles are crucial for shaping and ensuring adherence to policies at an institutional level (Jones & Brown, 2021). In contrast, the representation of Head Teachers/OICs/TICs is lower at 16.7%. Head Teachers/OICs/TICs, being at intermediate leadership levels, play a critical role in bridging the gap between policy formulation and practical application. These individuals are likely to be actively engaged in both teaching and administrative duties, providing them with a practical understanding of the implementation of child protection policies at both classroom and school levels. Literature supports this by 89 indicating that mid-level leaders are essential for operationalizing policies within educational institutions (Smith, 2020). The implications of this position distribution are significant for understanding the level of implementation and awareness of child protection policies. While the substantial number of Principals ensures a robust understanding of the strategic and managerial aspects of policy enforcement, the relatively smaller number of Head Teachers/OICs/TICs may limit insights into the practical and operational aspects of policy implementation. This could affect the comprehensiveness of the study's findings. Recent studies emphasize the importance of including diverse educational positions in research to gain a holistic view of policy implementation. Parker and Thomas (2022) highlight that insights from both senior administrators and intermediate leaders are essential for a complete understanding of policy effectiveness. They argue that while Principals can offer perspectives on broader challenges and strategies at a higher operational level, Head Teachers/OICs/TICs provide valuable practical and operational insights. In summary, the position distribution of respondents, as shown in Table 3, highlights a predominance of Principals, suggesting a focus on higher-level leadership in the implementation of child protection policies. The underrepresentation of Head Teachers/OICs/TICs indicates a potential gap in understanding the practical aspects of policy enforcement. These findings align with current research, emphasizing the need for a balanced representation of all educational leadership 90 positions to enhance the implementation and awareness of child protection policies in senior high schools. Table 4. Demographic profile of the School Heads in terms of highest educational attainment Highest Educational Attainment F % Bachelor’s Degree 0 0 Masteral Units 25 59.5 Masteral Degree 10 23.8 Doctoral Units 2 4.8 Doctoral Degree 5 11.9 Total 42 100 Based on Table 4, the demographic profile of School Heads in terms of highest educational attainment shows that the majority of respondents, 59.5% (25 individuals), have units towards a Master’s degree. This is followed by 23.8% (10 individuals) who hold a Master’s degree, and 11.9% (5 individuals) who hold a Doctoral degree. Respondents with units towards a Doctoral degree constitute 4.8% (2 individuals), while there are no respondents with only a Bachelor’s degree. The predominance of respondents with Master’s degrees or units towards a Master’s degree suggests that a significant proportion of the sample has advanced academic 91 qualifications. Educators with Master’s degrees are likely to have specialized knowledge and skills that can positively influence the implementation of child protection policies in senior high schools. Research indicates that higher levels of education among educators are associated with better understanding and implementation of educational policies (Brown & Smith, 2019). Conversely, the relatively low representation of those with Doctorate degrees and no representation of Bachelor’s degree holders may indicate a potential gap in the diversity of perspectives. While the presence of educators with advanced degrees ensures a strong foundation of academic knowledge, it is essential to consider insights from all educational levels to achieve comprehensive and inclusive policy outcomes. The implications of this distribution are significant for understanding the depth of knowledge and expertise available for implementing child protection policies. Educators with advanced degrees can contribute nuanced perspectives and potentially innovative approaches to policy implementation. However, ensuring that insights from educators at all educational levels are considered can enrich the study’s findings. Recent studies emphasize the role of educational attainment in shaping educational policies and practices. For example, Smith and Johnson (2021) highlight that educators with higher academic qualifications often play key roles in policy development and implementation. They argue that diverse educational backgrounds 92 among educators contribute to a more holistic approach to policy-making and implementation. In summary, the distribution of respondents' highest educational attainment, as shown in Table 4, underscores the prevalence of those with units towards a Master’s degree and Master’s degree holders in the study. This suggests a strong foundation of academic knowledge among respondents, which can positively impact the implementation of child protection policies. However, the limited representation of Doctorate degree holders and the absence of Bachelor’s degree holders could be further explored to ensure a comprehensive understanding of policy implementation in senior high schools. These findings align with current research, emphasizing the need to leverage diverse educational backgrounds to enhance policy effectiveness and awareness in educational settings. Table 5. Demographic profile of the School Heads in terms of Respondents’ Length of Service Length of Service F % 93 5 years and below 2 4.8 6-10 years 18 42.9 11 – 15 years 13 31.0 16 - 20 years 3 7.1 21 - 25 years 5 11.8 26 and above 1 2.4 Total 42 100 Based on Table 5, the demographic profile of School Heads in terms of respondents' length of service shows that the largest group, comprising 42.9% (18 individuals), has served for 6-10 years. This is followed by 31.0% (13 individuals) who have 11-15 years of service, and 11.8% (5 individuals) with 21-25 years of service. Respondents with 16-20 years of service constitute 7.1% (3 individuals), while those with 5 years and below of service account for 4.8% (2 individuals). The group with the longest service, 26 years and above, makes up 2.4% (1 individual). The predominance of respondents with 6-10 years of service suggests a relatively experienced cohort that is likely well-acquainted with the educational environment and its policies. Educators in this group may bring a balanced mix of fresh perspectives and practical experience to policy implementation. Literature suggests that educators with moderate years of service are often actively involved in both teaching and administrative tasks, making them well-positioned to understand and implement child protection policies effectively (Smith, 2020). The significant 94 representation of educators with 11-15 years of service further underscores a mature and seasoned group of respondents. These individuals are likely to have substantial experience in handling administrative and policy-related matters in their institutions. The smaller representation of educators with 21-25 years and above of service indicates fewer individuals with extensive tenure and experience. These educators may possess valuable institutional knowledge and historical context regarding policy evolution over time. Their insights could be crucial for understanding the long-term impacts and effectiveness of child protection policies in senior high schools. Studies highlight that experienced educators often play pivotal roles in policy advocacy and continuity (Brown & Jones, 2021). The implications of this distribution underscore the importance of balancing fresh perspectives with seasoned experience in policy implementation. While educators with fewer years of service may bring innovation and enthusiasm, leveraging the expertise of longer-serving educators is essential for policy sustainability and effectiveness. This diversity in experience can foster a collaborative approach to addressing challenges and improving policy outcomes in educational settings. Recent literature emphasizes the role of educator experience in policy implementation and educational reform. For instance, Jones et al. (2022) argue that a mix of experience levels among educators promotes comprehensive policy development and implementation. They highlight the importance of tapping into the 95 knowledge of veteran educators to ensure policies are rooted in practical insights and long-term goals. In summary, the distribution of respondents' length of service, as depicted in Table 5, reflects a diverse range of experience levels among educators in senior high schools. The concentration of respondents with 6-10 years of service suggests opportunities for balanced perspectives in policy implementation, while the presence of longer-serving educators underscores the need to harness their expertise for sustainable policy outcomes. These findings align with current research, emphasizing the value of balancing experience levels to enhance awareness and implementation of child protection policies in educational settings. Table 6 Demographic profile of the Teachers in terms of Age Age F % 96 21-26 4 1.7 27-32 18 7.6 33-38 46 19.5 39-44 160 67.8 45-50 5 2.2 51-56 1 .4 57-62 1 .4 ≥63 1 .4 Total 236 100.0 Based on Table 6, the demographic profile of Teachers in terms of age shows that the largest group of respondents, comprising 67.8% (160 individuals), falls within the 39-44 age range. This is followed by 19.5% (46 individuals) who are aged 33-38, and 7.6% (18 individuals) who are aged 27-32. The age group 21-26 represents 1.7% (4 individuals), while the 45-50 age group accounts for 2.2% (5 individuals). The least represented age groups are those aged 51-56, 57-62, and 63 and above, each constituting 0.4% (1 individual) of the respondents. The predominance of respondents in the 39-44 and 33-38 age groups suggests that the majority of teachers are in their mid-career stages. These teachers likely have substantial experience and stability in their roles, which can contribute positively to the implementation and awareness of child protection policies. Literature indicates that mid-career educators often have a well-developed understanding of both instructional practices and 97 institutional policies, making them key players in policy enforcement and adaptation (Smith, 2020). Conversely, the relatively low representation of teachers aged 21-26 and those aged 51 and above suggests fewer respondents from both the early and later stages of their careers. Younger educators may bring fresh perspectives and recent training to their roles, while older educators may offer valuable historical context and long-term insights. The limited number of these age groups could imply a potential gap in capturing the full spectrum of experiences and viewpoints necessary for a comprehensive understanding of child protection policies. The implications of this age distribution highlight the importance of leveraging the strengths of mid-career teachers while also seeking to incorporate the perspectives of both younger and older educators. This balanced approach can enhance the overall effectiveness and adaptability of child protection policies in educational settings. Recent studies emphasize the need for diverse age representation in educational research to ensure comprehensive and inclusive policy development (Parker & Thomas, 2022). In summary, the age distribution of respondents, as shown in Table 6, underscores the predominance of mid-career teachers, suggesting their significant role in the implementation of child protection policies. The underrepresentation of younger and older teachers points to a potential gap in capturing the breadth of perspectives necessary for holistic policy understanding. These findings align with 98 current research, emphasizing the value of diverse age demographics in enhancing policy awareness and implementation in educational environments. Table 7 Demographic profile of the Teachers in terms of Sex Sex F % Male 93 39.4 Female 143 60.6 Total 236 100.0 Based on Table 7, the demographic profile of Teachers in terms of sex shows that the majority of respondents are female, comprising 60.6% (143 individuals). Males represent 39.4% (93 individuals) of the total 236 respondents. The predominance of female teachers suggests a significant gender imbalance in the teaching workforce, which may influence the implementation and perception of child protection policies. Research indicates that female educators often play key roles in nurturing and caregiving, potentially making them more attuned to the nuances of child protection (Taylor & Wasicsko, 2020). Their higher representation could lead to a greater emphasis on protective measures and awareness within the school environment. Conversely, the lower representation of male teachers highlights the need for a more balanced gender perspective in educational settings. Male educators can provide different viewpoints and approaches to policy implementation, which can 99 be crucial for comprehensive policy development. Studies suggest that gender diversity among educators can enhance the effectiveness of policy implementation by incorporating a wider range of experiences and insights (Johnson & Buffington, 2021). The implications of this gender distribution are significant for understanding how child protection policies are perceived and implemented. A balanced representation of both male and female educators is essential for creating inclusive and effective policies. The current predominance of female teachers suggests a potential for strong advocacy in child protection but also underscores the need to engage more male educators to ensure diverse perspectives. Recent literature emphasizes the importance of gender diversity in educational research and policy implementation. For example, Johnson and Buffington (2021) found that gender-diverse groups are more likely to consider a broader range of issues and solutions in policy implementation. Additionally, balanced gender representation helps in understanding different perspectives and creating more effective and inclusive policies. In summary, the sex distribution of respondents, as shown in Table 7, reveals a significant majority of female teachers, which may positively influence the focus on child protection policies. However, the underrepresentation of male teachers points to the need for greater gender diversity to enrich the policy implementation process. These findings align with current research, emphasizing the importance of 100 considering gender balance to enhance the awareness and effectiveness of child protection policies in educational settings. Table 8 Demographic profile of the Teachers in terms of Position Position F % Teachers 1-3 197 83.5 Master Teachers 1-4 39 16.5 Total 100 236 Based on Table 8, the demographic profile of Teachers in terms of position shows that the majority of respondents, 83.5% (197 individuals), hold the position of Teachers I-III. The remaining 16.5% (39 individuals) are Master Teachers I-IV. The predominance of Teachers I-III suggests that most respondents are in the early to mid-stages of their teaching careers. These teachers are likely to be directly involved in classroom activities and may have a practical understanding of how child protection policies are implemented at the ground level. Research indicates that teachers in these roles are crucial for the initial enforcement of policies and can provide valuable insights into their practical application (Smith, 2020). Conversely, the smaller representation of Master Teachers, who are typically more experienced and hold senior positions, suggests fewer respondents from higher-tier teaching roles. Master Teachers often have extensive experience and may play critical roles 101 in mentoring less experienced teachers and shaping policy implementation at a strategic level. Their insights could be crucial for understanding the broader impacts and long-term effectiveness of child protection policies. Studies highlight that senior educators often contribute significantly to policy advocacy and the continuity of educational practices (Brown & Jones, 2021). The implications of this distribution highlight the importance of balancing practical, classroom-level insights with strategic, experienced perspectives in policy implementation. While the large number of Teachers I-III ensures a robust understanding of day-to-day policy application, the insights from Master Teachers are essential for a comprehensive view of policy effectiveness and sustainability. Recent literature emphasizes the need for a diverse range of educational positions in research to gain a holistic view of policy implementation (Parker & Thomas, 2022). In summary, the position distribution of respondents, as shown in Table 8, reflects a predominance of Teachers I-III, suggesting a focus on classroom-level implementation of child protection policies. The presence of Master Teachers, though smaller, underscores the need to harness their expertise for strategic policy insights. These findings align with current research, emphasizing the value of including diverse educational positions to enhance policy awareness and implementation in educational settings. Table 9 102 Demographic profile of the Teachers in terms of highest educational attainment Highest Educational Attainment F % Bachelor’s Degree 5 2.1 Masteral Units 72 30.5 Masteral Degree 144 61.0 Doctoral Units 8 3.4 Doctoral Degree 7 3 Total 236 100 Based on Table 9, the demographic profile of Teachers in terms of highest educational attainment shows that the majority of respondents, 61.0% (144 individuals), hold a Master’s degree. This is followed by 30.5% (72 individuals) who have completed some Masteral units, 3.4% (8 individuals) with Doctoral units, and 3.0% (7 individuals) with a Doctoral degree. Only 2.1% (5 individuals) hold a Bachelor’s degree. The high proportion of teachers with Master’s degrees indicates a well-qualified teaching workforce, likely possessing advanced knowledge and skills that can positively impact the implementation of child protection policies. Educators with Master’s degrees are often equipped with specialized training and research skills, which can enhance their ability to understand and apply educational policies effectively (Brown & Smith, 2019). The presence of teachers with Doctoral units and Doctoral degrees, though smaller, suggests a subset of highly advanced educators 103 who can contribute significantly to policy development and leadership in educational settings. These educators may offer valuable expertise and insights into complex issues related to child protection and policy implementation. Literature indicates that educators with higher academic qualifications often play key roles in policy advocacy and strategic planning (Smith & Johnson, 2021). The small number of Bachelor’s degree holders among the respondents highlights a potential gap in capturing perspectives from less advanced educational backgrounds. While this group may be fewer in number, their insights can still be valuable, particularly in understanding entry-level challenges and practical classroom experiences. The implications of this distribution underscore the importance of leveraging the advanced qualifications of the majority while also considering the diverse educational backgrounds of all educators. The high level of educational attainment among respondents suggests a strong foundation of academic knowledge that can positively influence policy implementation. However, ensuring a comprehensive view that includes insights from all educational levels is essential for holistic policy development and application. In summary, the educational attainment distribution of respondents, as shown in Table 9, reflects a highly qualified teaching workforce, predominantly holding Master’s degrees. The presence of educators with Doctoral qualifications further enriches the potential for advanced policy insights and leadership. These findings align with current research, emphasizing the importance of diverse educational 104 backgrounds in enhancing the awareness and implementation of child protection policies in educational settings. Table 10 Demographic profile of the Teachers in terms of Respondents’ Length of Service Length of Service F % 5 years and below 12 5.1 6-10 years 98 41.5 11 – 15 years 115 48.7 16 - 20 years 4 1.7 21 - 25 years 4 1.7 26 and above 3 1.3 Total 236 100 Based on Table 10, the demographic profile of Teachers in terms of length of service shows that the largest group of respondents, 48.7% (115 individuals), has served for 11-15 years. This is followed by 41.5% (98 individuals) with 6-10 years of service and 5.1% (12 individuals) with 5 years and below. Smaller groups include those with 16-20 years (1.7%, 4 individuals), 21-25 years (1.7%, 4 individuals), and 26 years and above (1.3%, 3 individuals). The predominance of teachers with 11-15 years of service suggests that the majority of respondents are mid-career educators 105 with substantial experience. These educators are likely to have a deep understanding of classroom dynamics and practical insights into the implementation of child protection policies. Research indicates that mid-career teachers are crucial for the effective enforcement of policies due to their balanced mix of experience and contemporary educational practices (Smith, 2020). The significant representation of teachers with 6-10 years of service further highlights a cohort that combines relatively fresh perspectives with growing professional experience. These teachers are wellpositioned to bring innovative ideas while being seasoned enough to understand the complexities of policy application. Conversely, the smaller representation of educators with 5 years and below and those with 16 years and above of service indicates fewer respondents from both the early and later stages of their careers. Younger teachers may bring recent training and new approaches to their roles, while longer-serving educators can provide valuable institutional knowledge and historical context. The limited number of these groups suggests a potential gap in capturing the full spectrum of experiences and viewpoints necessary for a comprehensive understanding of child protection policies. The implications of this distribution highlight the importance of leveraging the strengths of mid-career and moderately experienced teachers while also seeking to incorporate the perspectives of both younger and more veteran educators. This balanced approach can enhance the overall effectiveness and adaptability of child protection policies in educational settings. Recent studies emphasize the need for diverse experience levels among 106 educators to ensure comprehensive and inclusive policy development (Parker & Thomas, 2022). In summary, the length of service distribution of respondents, as shown in Table 10, reflects a predominance of mid-career teachers, suggesting their significant role in the implementation of child protection policies. The presence of both newer and more veteran teachers, though smaller, underscores the need to harness their diverse perspectives for a holistic policy understanding. These findings align with current research, emphasizing the value of balancing experience levels to enhance awareness and implementation of child protection policies in educational environments. Table 11 Level of Awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies in terms of Familiarity with Policy Content Indicators School Heads Teachers 107 Weig hted Mea n* 3.15 Verbal Descripti on* Weigh ted Mean * 2.51 Verbal Descriptio n* Comp osite Mean Verbal Interpretati on Agree 2.83 Agree 2. I have a basic understanding of … 3.33 Strongly Agree 3.15 Agree 3.24 Agree 3. I am knowledgeable about the rights … 2.55 Agree 2.52 Agree 2.54 Agree 4. I feel confident in my understanding … 2.52 Agree 2.52 Agree 2.52 Agree 5. I believe that I am well-informed about … 2.51 Agree 2.50 Disagree 2.51 Agree Over-all Weighted Mean 2.81 Agree 2.64 Agree 2.73 Agree 1. I am aware with the overall objectives… Agree * Legend: Rating Scale Range Verbal Description 4 3.26 – 4.00 Strongly Agree 3 2.51 – 3.25 Agree 2 1.76 – 2.50 Disagree 1 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Disagree Based on Table 11, the assessment of awareness among School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High Schools regarding Child Protection Policies reveals several insights. The overall weighted mean for School Heads is 2.81, indicating an "Agree" level of familiarity with policy content. For Teachers, the overall weighted mean is slightly lower at 2.64, also falling under the "Agree" category. This suggests that both groups generally acknowledge their awareness of 108 child protection policies but may have varying degrees of depth in their understanding. Among the specific indicators, the highest mean for School Heads is in Indicator 2 ("I have a basic understanding of the key components and provisions detailed within our school's Child Protection Policies") with a weighted mean of 3.33, categorized as "Strongly Agree." This indicates a strong grasp of policy components among School Heads. For Teachers, the highest mean is in the same indicator but slightly lower at 3.15, still within the "Agree" range. This suggests a generally positive but somewhat less emphatic understanding among Teachers compared to School Heads. Conversely, the lowest mean across both groups is in Indicator 5 ("I believe that I am well-informed about the support resources available for addressing child protection concerns as per our school's policies"), with both School Heads and Teachers having a weighted mean of 2.51, categorized as "Agree." This indicates that both groups feel less confident in their knowledge of available support resources, which may be crucial for effective implementation and response to child protection issues. The findings are consistent with recent literature indicating that while educators often express awareness of policy objectives and key components, gaps may exist in understanding specific procedural aspects and available support systems (Jones & Brown, 2021). These gaps can impact the efficacy of policy implementation, highlighting the importance of targeted training and continuous 109 professional development to enhance comprehensive understanding and adherence to child protection policies (Smith & Johnson, 2021). In conclusion, while both School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High Schools generally demonstrate a positive awareness of child protection policies, opportunities exist to strengthen understanding, particularly in procedural knowledge and support resources. Addressing these gaps can lead to more effective policy implementation and improved safeguarding of students within educational environments. Table 12 Level of Awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies Reporting Procedures Indicators School Heads Teachers in terms of Understanding of 110 Weig hted Mea n* am 3.17 Verbal Descripti on* Weigh ted Mean * 2.57 Verbal Descriptio n* Comp osite Mean Verbal Interpretati on 1. I knowledgeable about the specific … Agree Agree 2.87 Agree 2. I understand the 3.30 roles and responsibilities … Strongly Agree 3.18 Agree 3.24 Agree 3. I feel confident in 2.80 my ability to recognize … Agree 2.59 Agree 2.70 Agree 4. I am aware of 2.60 the appropriate channels … Agree 2.56 Agree 2.58 Agree 5. I have received 2.53 adequate training and guidance … Agree 2.50 Disagree 2.52 Agree Over-all Weighted Mean Agree 2.68 Agree 2.78 Agree 2.88 * Legend: Rating Scale Range Verbal Description 4 3.26 – 4.00 Strongly Agree 3 2.51 – 3.25 Agree 2 1.76 – 2.50 Disagree 1 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Disagree Based on Table 12, which assesses the level of awareness among School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High Schools regarding Child Protection Policies in terms of understanding reporting procedures, several key findings emerge. The overall weighted mean for School Heads is 2.88, categorized as "Agree," indicating a solid understanding of reporting procedures. Similarly, 111 Teachers have an overall weighted mean of 2.68, also falling within the "Agree" range, though slightly lower compared to School Heads. Among the specific indicators, the highest mean for both School Heads and Teachers is in Indicator 2 ("I understand the roles and responsibilities of educators and administrators in reporting incidents of child protection concerns according to our school's policies"). School Heads scored 3.30, classified as "Strongly Agree," demonstrating a robust comprehension of their roles. Teachers also showed a strong understanding with a mean of 3.18, categorized as "Agree." Conversely, the lowest mean across both groups is in Indicator 5 ("I have received adequate training and guidance on how to effectively report incidents related to child protection concerns as per the reporting procedures established in our school's policies"). School Heads and Teachers both scored 2.53 and 2.50, respectively, categorized as "Agree," indicating a perception of insufficient training in reporting procedures. The findings resonate with recent literature, which underscores the critical importance of thorough training and clear guidelines in ensuring educators' confidence and competence in reporting child protection concerns (Smith & Johnson, 2021). Insufficient training can hinder effective response to incidents and may contribute to underreporting or mishandling of cases, potentially compromising student safety (Jones & Brown, 2021). In conclusion, while both School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High Schools demonstrate a generally positive understanding of reporting 112 procedures within Child Protection Policies, there is room for improvement, particularly in providing comprehensive training and support. Addressing these areas can enhance educators' preparedness and effectiveness in safeguarding students and responding to child protection issues within educational settings. This underscores the importance of ongoing professional development and support mechanisms to strengthen policy implementation and ensure student welfare. Table 13 Level of Awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies in terms of Awareness of Support Resources Indicators School Heads Teachers 113 Weig hted Mea n* 1. I am aware of 3.20 the support resources available… Verbal Descripti on* Verbal Descriptio n* Comp osite Mean Verbal Interpretati on Agree Weigh ted Mean * 2.53 Agree 2.87 Agree 2. I know where to 3.20 access information about … Agree 2.89 Agree 3.04 Agree 3. I feel confident in 3.18 my ability to utilize … Agree 2.52 Agree 2.85 Agree 4. I am 3.21 knowledgeable about the procedures … Strongly Agree 2.52 Agree 2.87 Agree 5. I understand the 2.60 role of school … Agree 2.50 Disagree 2.55 Agree Over-all Weighted Mean Agree 2.59 Agree 2.84 Agree 3.08 * Legend: Rating Scale Range Verbal Description 4 3.26 – 4.00 Strongly Agree 3 2.51 – 3.25 Agree 2 1.76 – 2.50 Disagree 1 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Disagree Based on Table 13, the level of awareness among School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High Schools regarding Child Protection Policies, specifically in terms of awareness of support resources, reveals several key insights. The overall weighted mean for School Heads is 3.08, categorized as "Agree," indicating a solid awareness of support resources. Teachers, on the other 114 hand, have an overall weighted mean of 2.59, also falling within the "Agree" range, though notably lower than that of School Heads. The composite mean for both groups is 2.84, which also translates to "Agree." Among the specific indicators, the highest mean for School Heads is in Indicator 4 ("I am knowledgeable about the procedures for accessing counseling or mental health services for students affected by child protection issues within our school"), with a mean of 3.21, categorized as "Strongly Agree." This suggests that School Heads are particularly confident in their knowledge about accessing mental health services. For Teachers, the highest mean is found in Indicator 2 ("I know where to access information about support services and resources offered by external organizations or agencies to address child protection concerns"), with a mean of 2.89, categorized as "Agree." This indicates that Teachers have a reasonable awareness of external support services. The lowest mean for both School Heads and Teachers is in Indicator 5 ("I understand the role of school personnel and support staff in providing assistance and support to students and families affected by child protection concerns"), with School Heads scoring 2.60 and Teachers scoring 2.50, the latter categorized as "Disagree." This suggests a gap in understanding the specific roles of school personnel in supporting affected students and families. The findings align with recent literature, emphasizing the critical importance of awareness and utilization of support resources in effectively addressing child protection issues (Smith & Johnson, 2021). Adequate knowledge of both internal and 115 external support resources is essential for educators to provide comprehensive assistance to students in need. The disparity between the awareness levels of School Heads and Teachers highlights a potential area for targeted professional development and training (Jones & Brown, 2021). In conclusion, while School Heads demonstrate a higher level of awareness of support resources compared to Teachers, both groups generally agree on their knowledge of these resources. However, there is a notable need for improved understanding of the roles of school personnel and support staff in child protection. Addressing these gaps through targeted training and increased communication about available resources can enhance the effectiveness of child protection policies in senior high schools. These findings underscore the importance of ongoing education and support for educators to ensure the well-being and safety of students. Table 14 Level of Awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies in terms of Signs and Indicators Indicators School Heads Teachers 116 Weig hted Mea n* 1. I am familiar with 2.78 the signs and … Verbal Descripti on* Verbal Descriptio n* Comp osite Mean Verbal Interpretati on Agree Weigh ted Mean * 2.50 Disagree 2.64 Agree 2. I can recognize 2.51 behavioral or … Agree 2.18 Disagree 2.35 Disagree 3. I am 2.67 knowledgeable about the appropriate… Agree 2.54 Agree 2.61 Agree 4. I understand the 3.26 importance of … Strongly Agree 2.58 Agree 2.92 Agree 5. I am confident in 2.88 my ability to … Agree 2.48 Disagree 2.83 Agree Over-all Weighted Mean Agree 2.46 Disagree 2.67 Agree 2.88 * Legend: Rating Scale Range Verbal Description 4 3.26 – 4.00 Strongly Agree 3 2.51 – 3.25 Agree 2 1.76 – 2.50 Disagree 1 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Disagree Based on Table 14, the level of awareness among School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High Schools regarding Child Protection Policies, specifically in terms of recognizing signs and indicators of abuse or neglect, presents some significant findings. The overall weighted mean for School Heads is 2.88, falling into the "Agree" category, while Teachers have an overall weighted mean of 2.46, categorized as "Disagree." The composite mean for both groups is 2.67, which translates to "Agree." The highest mean score for School Heads is 3.26 for 117 Indicator 4 ("I understand the importance of promptly reporting any signs or suspicions of abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities or school personnel"), indicating a "Strongly Agree" level of awareness. This suggests that School Heads are particularly confident in the importance of prompt reporting of abuse or neglect. For Teachers, the highest mean score is 2.58, also for Indicator 4, categorized as "Agree." This highlights a general consensus on the importance of prompt reporting, though with slightly less confidence compared to School Heads. The lowest mean score for School Heads is 2.51 for Indicator 2 ("I can recognize behavioral or physical signs in students that may indicate they are experiencing abuse or neglect"), indicating "Agree." For Teachers, the lowest mean score is 2.18 for the same indicator, categorized as "Disagree." This indicates that Teachers feel less confident in their ability to recognize signs of abuse or neglect compared to School Heads. The discrepancy in the level of awareness between School Heads and Teachers is notable. While School Heads generally agree on their familiarity and ability to recognize and respond to signs of abuse, Teachers exhibit a lower level of confidence in these areas. This gap highlights a need for enhanced training and professional development for Teachers to improve their ability to identify and respond to signs of abuse and neglect effectively. These findings are consistent with recent literature emphasizing the importance of comprehensive training for educators to improve their ability to recognize and respond to child abuse and neglect (Smith & Johnson, 2021). Studies 118 have shown that educators who receive thorough training on child protection policies and indicators of abuse are more likely to effectively identify and respond to such cases (Jones & Brown, 2021). In conclusion, while School Heads show a higher level of awareness regarding the signs and indicators of child abuse and neglect, there is a significant need for improved training and support for Teachers. Enhancing Teachers' ability to recognize and respond to signs of abuse is crucial for the effective implementation of child protection policies. These findings underscore the importance of ongoing education and training programs to ensure all educators are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to protect students effectively. Table 15 Level of Awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies in terms of Legal and Obligations Indicators School Heads Teachers 119 Weig hted Mea n* 1. I am familiar with 2.53 the legal obligations outlined in … Verbal Descripti on* Verbal Descriptio n* Comp osite Mean Verbal Interpretati on Agree Weigh ted Mean * 2.51 Agree 2.52 Agree 2. I can recognize 2.53 behavioral or physical… Agree 2.53 Agree 2.53 Agree 3. I am 2.81 knowledgeable about the appropriate … Agree 2.60 Agree 2.71 Agree 4. I understand the 3.56 importance of … Strongly Agree 2.78 Agree 3.17 Agree 5. I am confident in 3.01 my ability to … Agree 2.55 Agree 2.78 Agree Over-all Weighted Mean Agree 2.60 Agree 2.75 Agree 2.89 * Legend: Rating Scale Range Verbal Description 4 3.26 – 4.00 Strongly Agree 3 2.51 – 3.25 Agree 2 1.76 – 2.50 Disagree 1 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Disagree Based on Table 15, the level of awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies, specifically in terms of legal obligations, reveals some critical insights. The overall weighted mean for School Heads is 2.89, categorized as "Agree," while for Teachers, it is 2.60, also falling into the "Agree" category. The composite mean for both groups 120 is 2.75, which indicates a general agreement on awareness of legal obligations related to child protection. The highest mean score for School Heads is 3.56 for Indicator 4 ("I understand the importance of promptly reporting any signs or suspicions of abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities or school personnel"), indicating a "Strongly Agree" level of awareness. This suggests that School Heads are highly aware of the critical importance of promptly reporting suspicions or evidence of abuse or neglect. For Teachers, the highest mean score is 2.78 for the same indicator, categorized as "Agree." While Teachers agree on the importance of prompt reporting, their confidence is slightly lower compared to School Heads. The lowest mean scores for both School Heads and Teachers are found in Indicator 1 ("I am familiar with the legal obligations outlined in Child Protection Policies regarding the reporting and handling of suspected cases of abuse or neglect"), with School Heads at 2.53 and Teachers at 2.51, both indicating "Agree." This suggests that while there is a basic level of awareness regarding legal obligations, there may be room for improvement in ensuring comprehensive understanding among both groups. These findings indicate a general awareness among both School Heads and Teachers about the legal obligations and importance of prompt reporting in cases of suspected child abuse or neglect. However, the disparity in the levels of confidence and the highest and lowest mean scores highlight areas that may require further emphasis in training programs. 121 Recent literature underscores the importance of ensuring that educators are fully aware of their legal responsibilities concerning child protection. For instance, a study by Jones and Brown (2021) emphasizes that thorough knowledge of legal obligations and proper reporting procedures is essential for effective child protection in schools. This is further supported by Smith and Johnson (2021), who highlight that continuous professional development and training can significantly enhance educators' ability to fulfill their legal duties and protect students effectively. In conclusion, while both School Heads and Teachers show a general agreement on their awareness of legal obligations under child protection policies, there is a clear need for enhanced training and professional development. This will ensure that all educators have a comprehensive understanding of their legal responsibilities and are confident in their ability to recognize, report, and handle cases of child abuse or neglect. These findings align with current research, stressing the importance of continuous education to maintain a high standard of child protection in educational settings. Table 16 Level of Awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies in terms of Training of Professional Development 122 Indicators School Heads Teachers Weig hted Mea n* 1. I have received 2.50 adequate training on Child … Verbal Descripti on* Verbal Descriptio n* Comp osite Mean Verbal Interpretati on Disagree Weigh ted Mean * 2.45 Disagree 2.48 Disagree 2. I feel confident in 2.51 my understanding of the … Agree 2.50 Agree 2.51 Agree 3. I am aware of 2.32 opportunities for … Disagree 2.22 Disagree 2.27 Disagree 4. I believe that 3.28 professional development … Strongly Agree 2.50 Agree 2.89 Agree 5. I actively seek 2.51 out opportunities for … Agree 2.50 Disagree 2.51 Agree Over-all Weighted Mean Agree 2.43 Disagree 2.53 Agree 2.62 * Legend: Rating Scale Range Verbal Description 4 3.26 – 4.00 Strongly Agree 3 2.51 – 3.25 Agree 2 1.76 – 2.50 Disagree 1 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Disagree Based on Table 16, the level of awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies, specifically in terms of training and professional development, presents a mixed picture. The overall weighted mean for School Heads is 2.62, categorized as "Agree," while for Teachers, it is 2.43, categorized as "Disagree." The composite mean for 123 both groups is 2.53, indicating an overall agreement on the adequacy of training and professional development related to child protection policies, although the perspectives between the two groups differ slightly. The highest mean score for School Heads is 3.28 for Indicator 4 ("I believe that professional development activities related to Child Protection Policies are beneficial for enhancing student safety and well-being"), indicating a "Strongly Agree" level of awareness. This suggests that School Heads highly value the importance of professional development activities in promoting student safety and well-being. For Teachers, the highest mean score is 2.50, for both Indicator 2 ("I feel confident in my understanding of the training materials related to Child Protection Policies") and Indicator 5 ("I actively seek out opportunities for further training and professional development in the area of Child Protection Policies"), categorized as "Agree" and "Disagree," respectively. This highlights a discrepancy where teachers feel confident in understanding the training materials but do not actively seek out further training opportunities. The lowest mean scores for both School Heads and Teachers are found in Indicator 3 ("I am aware of opportunities for ongoing professional development related to Child Protection Policies"), with School Heads at 2.32 and Teachers at 2.22, both indicating "Disagree." This suggests a significant gap in awareness about the availability of continuous professional development opportunities related to child protection policies. These findings point to a need for improved communication and accessibility of ongoing professional development opportunities for both School Heads and 124 Teachers. While there is some level of confidence in understanding the materials and recognizing the benefits of professional development, the lack of awareness and active pursuit of further training highlight areas that require attention. Recent literature supports these findings, emphasizing the critical role of continuous professional development in maintaining and enhancing educators' competence in child protection. For instance, a study by Johnson and White (2022) underscores the importance of ongoing training to ensure that educators are wellprepared to handle child protection issues effectively. Similarly, Smith and Brown (2021) highlight that regular professional development not only enhances awareness but also equips educators with the necessary skills to identify and respond to child protection concerns proactively. In conclusion, while there is a general agreement on the adequacy of training received, the disparity in the active pursuit and awareness of ongoing professional development opportunities indicates areas for improvement. Ensuring that both School Heads and Teachers have access to and are informed about continuous professional development can significantly enhance the effectiveness of child protection policies in educational settings. These findings align with current research, emphasizing the need for regular and accessible training programs to maintain high standards of child protection awareness and competence among educators. Table 17 125 Consolidated Weighted Average Mean of Respondents in Level of Awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies Indicators School Heads Teachers Weighte d Mean* 2.81 Verbal Description* Agree Weighted Mean* 2.64 Verbal Description* Agree Composite Mean 2.73 Verbal Interpretation Agree 2. Understanding of Reporting Procedures 2.88 Agree 2.68 Agree 2.78 Agree 2. Awareness of Support Resources 3.08 Agree 2.59 Agree 2.84 Agree 4. Knowledge of Signs and Indicators 2.88 Agree 2.46 Disagree 2.67 Agree 5. Legal and Obligations 2.89 Agree 2.60 Agree 2.75 Agree 6. Training of Development 2.62 Agree 2.43 Disagree 2.53 Agree 2.86 Agree 2.57 Agree 2.72 Agree 1. Familiarity with Policy Content Professional Over-all Weighted Mean * Legend: Rating Scale Range Verbal Description 4 3 2 1 3.26 – 4.00 2.51 – 3.25 1.76 – 2.50 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Strongly Disagree Based on Table 17, the consolidated weighted average mean of respondents in the level of awareness of School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High School regarding Child Protection Policies reveals a general agreement on several indicators. The overall weighted mean for School Heads is 2.86, categorized as "Agree," and for Teachers, it is 2.57, also categorized as "Agree." The composite mean for both groups stands at 2.72, indicating an overall agreement on the 126 awareness levels regarding Child Protection Policies. The highest mean score is found in the indicator "Awareness of Support Resources," with a composite mean of 2.84. This suggests that both School Heads and Teachers generally agree that they are aware of the support resources available within their schools and external organizations for addressing child protection concerns. This high level of awareness is crucial as it ensures that educators can effectively utilize available resources to support students' safety and well-being. This finding is supported by recent literature which emphasizes the importance of resource awareness in effectively implementing child protection policies (Johnson & White, 2022). Conversely, the lowest mean score is observed in the indicator "Training of Professional Development," with a composite mean of 2.53. This indicates a discrepancy in the perceived adequacy of training and professional development related to child protection policies, particularly among Teachers who rated this indicator as "Disagree" (2.43). This highlights a significant gap in ongoing professional development opportunities, suggesting that many educators may not feel sufficiently trained or updated on the latest child protection procedures and policies. Current studies highlight the necessity of continuous professional development to maintain a high standard of child protection awareness and competence among educators (Smith & Brown, 2021). Other indicators such as "Familiarity with Policy Content," "Understanding of Reporting Procedures," "Knowledge of Signs and Indicators," and "Legal and Obligations" show an overall agreement among respondents, with composite means ranging from 2.67 to 2.78. 127 These scores reflect a general awareness and understanding of the key aspects of child protection policies, though there remains room for improvement, particularly in enhancing training and ongoing professional development. In summary, while there is a general agreement on the awareness levels of child protection policies among School Heads and Teachers, the data indicates areas that require further attention, especially in terms of professional development. Ensuring that educators receive regular and comprehensive training can enhance their ability to effectively implement child protection policies, thereby ensuring a safer environment for students. These findings align with the latest research emphasizing the critical role of continuous professional development and resource awareness in child protection efforts within educational settings. Table 18 Challenges Encountered of School Heads and Teachers in the Senior High School, Third District regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy in terms of Awareness in Training Indicators School Heads Teachers Weig hted Mea n* Weigh Verbal ted Descriptio Mean n* * Verbal Descripti on* Comp osite Mean Verbal Interpretati on 128 1. Insufficient 2.51 awareness among ... 2. Lack of 2.51 comprehensive training … 3. Difficulty in 2.56 accessing… Agree 2.55 Agree 2.53 Agree Agree 2.50 Agree 2.51 Agree Agree 2.78 Agree 2.67 Agree 4. Inadequate frequency of … Strongly Agree 2.69 Agree 2.99 Agree Agree 2.51 Agree 2.51 Agree Agree 2.61 Agree 2.64 Agree 3.28 5. Limited 2.51 understanding of child protection … Over-all Weighted 2.67 Mean * Legend: Rating Scale Range Verbal Description 4 3.26 – 4.00 Strongly Agree 3 2.51 – 3.25 Agree 2 1.76 – 2.50 Disagree 1 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Disagree Table 18 presents the challenges encountered by School Heads and Teachers in the Third District's Senior High Schools regarding the implementation of Child Protection Policies in terms of awareness and training. The overall weighted mean for School Heads is 2.67, interpreted as "Agree," while for Teachers it is 2.61, also interpreted as "Agree." The composite mean for both groups is 2.64, indicating an overall agreement on the challenges related to awareness and training in child protection policies. The highest mean score is observed in the indicator "Inadequate frequency of refresher courses on child protection policies," with a composite mean of 2.99. This suggests that both School Heads and Teachers strongly agree that there 129 is a significant challenge in providing regular refresher courses. This finding is critical as continuous professional development is essential for maintaining and updating knowledge on child protection policies. Studies emphasize the importance of regular training to ensure that all school personnel are up-to-date with the latest procedures and protocols in child protection (Johnson & White, 2022). On the other hand, the lowest mean score is found in the indicators "Lack of comprehensive training programs on child protection for all school personnel" and "Limited understanding of child protection procedures among new staff members," both with a composite mean of 2.51. These scores indicate that while there is agreement that these issues are challenges, they are perceived as less pressing compared to the need for regular refresher courses. The agreement on these indicators suggests that both School Heads and Teachers recognize the importance of comprehensive training and ensuring that new staff members are adequately informed about child protection procedures. Other indicators, such as "Insufficient awareness among staff about the Child Protection Policy" and "Difficulty in accessing up-to-date training materials and resources," have composite means of 2.53 and 2.67, respectively. These scores indicate that these are recognized challenges but not as critical as the need for frequent refresher courses. The difficulty in accessing up-to-date training materials highlights a gap that can hinder the effectiveness of child protection training programs. Current research supports the need for readily available, up-to-date resources to facilitate effective training (Smith & Brown, 2021). 130 In summary, while there is a general agreement on the challenges related to awareness and training in child protection policies, the data highlights the critical need for regular refresher courses. Ensuring the availability of up-to-date training materials and comprehensive training programs for all school personnel, especially new staff members, is essential for the effective implementation of child protection policies. These findings align with recent studies emphasizing the importance of continuous professional development and resource accessibility in enhancing the awareness and implementation of child protection policies in educational settings. Table 19 Challenges Encountered of School Heads and Teachers in the Senior High School, Third District regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy in terms of Resource Constraints Indicators School Heads Teachers Weig hted Mea n* Weigh Verbal ted Descriptio Mean n* * Verbal Descripti on* Comp osite Mean Verbal Interpretati on 131 1. Insufficient 3.26 funding for the … 2. Lack of 2.50 dedicated personnel to ... 3. Inadequate 2.51 technological resources … Strongly Agree Disagree 3.29 3.28 2.50 Strongly Agree Disagree 2.50 Strongly Agree Disagree Agree 2.51 Agree 2.51 Agree 4. Limited 3.28 availability of child … 5. Challenges in 2.51 allocating time for … Over-all Weighted 2.81 Mean Strongly Agree 2.51 Agree 2.90 Agree Agree 2.51 Agree 2.51 Agree Agree 2.66 Agree 2.74 Agree * Legend: Rating Scale Range Verbal Description 4 3.26 – 4.00 Strongly Agree 3 2.51 – 3.25 Agree 2 1.76 – 2.50 Disagree 1 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Disagree Table 19 outlines the challenges encountered by School Heads and Teachers in the Senior High Schools of the Third District regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy in terms of resource constraints. The overall weighted mean for School Heads is 2.81, interpreted as "Agree," and for Teachers, it is 2.66, also interpreted as "Agree." The composite mean is 2.74, indicating a general agreement on the challenges related to resource constraints in implementing child protection policies. The highest mean score is observed in the indicator "Insufficient funding for the implementation of the Child Protection Policy," with a composite mean of 3.28. Both School Heads and Teachers strongly agree that inadequate funding is a 132 significant barrier. This finding aligns with literature that emphasizes the critical role of sufficient funding in the successful implementation of child protection initiatives (Green & Hart, 2021). Adequate financial resources are essential to support training programs, procure necessary materials, and ensure overall policy effectiveness. The lowest mean score is found in the indicator "Lack of dedicated personnel to manage child protection issues," with a composite mean of 2.50. Both groups disagree on this being a significant challenge, indicating that they might have adequate personnel or other mechanisms in place to address child protection issues. This score suggests that the presence of dedicated personnel is less of a concern compared to funding and resource availability. Other indicators, such as "Inadequate technological resources to support child protection initiatives," "Limited availability of child protection materials and supplies," and "Challenges in allocating time for staff to engage in child protection training," have composite means of 2.51, 2.90, and 2.51, respectively. These scores indicate agreement on these being challenges, with "Limited availability of child protection materials and supplies" being particularly noted by School Heads (mean of 3.28) but seen less critically by Teachers (mean of 2.51). The agreement on the need for more technological resources and better time allocation for training underscores the importance of infrastructure and logistical support in implementing child protection policies effectively. In summary, while there is a general agreement on the resource constraints impacting the implementation of child protection policies, insufficient funding emerges 133 as the most significant challenge. Ensuring adequate financial resources is crucial for the effective implementation of child protection initiatives. The findings suggest a need for strategic investment in funding, technological resources, and training time allocation to overcome these barriers. These observations are consistent with recent studies that highlight the necessity of adequate resources for the successful implementation of child protection policies in educational settings (Smith & Brown, 2021; Johnson & White, 2022). Table 20 Challenges Encountered of School Heads and Teachers in the Senior High School, Third District regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy in terms of Institutional Culture and Support Indicators School Heads Teachers Weig hted Mea n* Weigh Verbal ted Descriptio Mean n* * Verbal Descripti on* Comp osite Mean Verbal Interpretati on 134 1. Resistance to 2.50 change in implementing… 2. Insufficient 2.50 support from school … 3. Lack of 2.32 collaboration among staff in … Disagree 2.45 Disagree 2.48 Disagree Disagree 2.50 Disagree 2.50 Disagree Disagree 2.22 Disagree 2.27 Disagree 4. Inadequate 3.28 integration of child protection … 5. Limited 2.51 engagement of parents … Over-all Weighted 2.62 Mean Strongly Agree 2.51 Agree 2.90 Agree Agree 3.50 Strongly Agree 3.00 Agree Agree 2.64 Agree 2.63 Agree * Legend: Rating Scale Range Verbal Description 4 3.26 – 4.00 Strongly Agree 3 2.51 – 3.25 Agree 2 1.76 – 2.50 Disagree 1 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Disagree Table 20 presents the challenges encountered by School Heads and Teachers in the Senior High Schools of the Third District regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy in terms of institutional culture and support. The overall weighted mean for School Heads is 2.62, interpreted as "Agree," and for Teachers, it is 2.64, also interpreted as "Agree." The composite mean of 2.63 indicates a general consensus on the challenges related to institutional culture and support in implementing child protection policies. The highest mean score is observed in the indicator "Limited engagement of parents and the community in child protection efforts," with a composite mean of 3.00. Teachers strongly agree (mean of 3.50) that 135 there is limited engagement from parents and the community, while School Heads agree (mean of 2.51). This suggests a significant challenge in fostering collaborative efforts between the school and external stakeholders. Engaging parents and the community is crucial for a comprehensive approach to child protection, as emphasized by recent studies that highlight the importance of community involvement in safeguarding children (Jones & Smith, 2021). The lowest mean scores are found in the indicators "Resistance to change in implementing new child protection measures" (composite mean of 2.48), "Insufficient support from school leadership for child protection initiatives" (composite mean of 2.50), and "Lack of collaboration among staff in addressing child protection issues" (composite mean of 2.27). Both School Heads and Teachers disagree on these being significant challenges, suggesting that there might be a relatively supportive culture within schools for implementing new measures and initiatives. The disagreement on lack of collaboration among staff also indicates that internal teamwork might not be a major barrier to child protection efforts. "Inadequate integration of child protection policies into the school's daily operations" is another notable indicator with a composite mean of 2.90. School Heads strongly agree (mean of 3.28) that this is a challenge, while Teachers agree (mean of 2.51). This discrepancy highlights a potential gap in the perception and implementation of child protection policies between leadership and teaching staff. Effective integration of these policies into daily school operations is essential for consistent and effective child protection, as supported by literature that 136 stresses the need for systematic policy implementation in educational settings (Brown & Green, 2021). In summary, while there is a general agreement on the challenges related to institutional culture and support, limited engagement of parents and the community emerges as the most significant challenge. This finding suggests the need for schools to enhance their outreach and collaboration with external stakeholders. Additionally, the discrepancy between School Heads and Teachers regarding the integration of policies into daily operations highlights the need for better communication and alignment within schools. These findings align with recent studies that underscore the importance of community involvement and systematic policy integration for effective child protection (Johnson & Lee, 2022; Davis & Clark, 2021). Table 21 Challenges Encountered of School Heads and Teachers in the Senior High School, Third District regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy in terms of Legal and Reporting Indicators 1. Confusion regarding the legal … School Heads Teachers Weig hted Mea n* 2.51 Weigh ted Mean * 2.54 Verbal Descripti on* Agree Verbal Descriptio n* Comp osite Mean Verbal Interpretati on Agree 2.53 Agree 137 2. Insufficient 2.51 training on how to … 3. Lack of clear 2.51 protocols for … Agree 2.51 Agree 2.51 Agree Agree 2.51 Agree 2.51 Agree 4. Challenges in 3.28 maintaining confidentiality … 5. Limited support 2.51 from legal … Strongly Agree 2.51 Agree 2.90 Agree Agree 2.51 Agree 2.51 Agree Over-all Weighted Mean Agree 2.52 Agree 2.59 Agree 2.66 * Legend: Rating Scale Range Verbal Description 4 3.26 – 4.00 Strongly Agree 3 2.51 – 3.25 Agree 2 1.76 – 2.50 Disagree 1 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Disagree Table 21 presents the challenges encountered by School Heads and Teachers in the Senior High Schools of the Third District regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy in terms of legal and reporting requirements. The overall weighted mean for School Heads is 2.66, interpreted as "Agree," and for Teachers, it is 2.52, also interpreted as "Agree." The composite mean of 2.59 suggests a general consensus that legal and reporting challenges are present but not overwhelming. The highest mean score is for the indicator "Challenges in maintaining confidentiality during the reporting process," with a composite mean of 2.90. School Heads strongly agree (mean of 3.28) that maintaining confidentiality is a significant challenge, while Teachers agree (mean of 2.51). This highlights a critical concern in 138 the reporting process, as maintaining confidentiality is essential for the protection of both the victim and the reporter. Studies emphasize that confidentiality issues can deter reporting and affect the trustworthiness of the child protection system (Smith & Jones, 2021). The other indicators—"Confusion regarding the legal requirements for reporting child protection cases," "Insufficient training on how to document and report child protection incidents," "Lack of clear protocols for handling child protection reports," and "Limited support from legal authorities in addressing reported child protection cases"—all have composite means of 2.51 to 2.53, indicating agreement on these being challenges. The consistent agreement across these indicators points to a need for more comprehensive training and clearer protocols. Effective documentation and reporting are fundamental aspects of child protection, as supported by literature that calls for clear guidelines and regular training to ensure all personnel are equipped to handle such cases appropriately (Brown & Green, 2021). In summary, while there is general agreement on the presence of challenges related to legal and reporting aspects of child protection policies, maintaining confidentiality during the reporting process emerges as the most significant issue. This finding underscores the importance of creating secure and confidential reporting systems. Additionally, the consistent agreement on other challenges indicates a need for improved training and clearer protocols. These findings are in line with recent studies that stress the importance of legal clarity, adequate training, and 139 confidentiality in the effective implementation of child protection policies (Johnson & Lee, 2022; Davis & Clark, 2021). Table 22 Consolidate Weighted Average Mean of School Heads and Teachers Respondents Challenges Encountered in the Senior High School, Third District regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy Indicators 1. Awareness on Training School Heads Teachers Weig hted Mea n* 2.67 Weigh ted Mean * 2.61 Verbal Descripti on* Agree Verbal Descriptio n* Comp osite Mean Verbal Interpretati on Agree 2.64 Agree 140 2. Resources Constraints 2. Institutional Culture and Support 2.81 Agree 2.66 Agree 2.74 Agree 2.62 Agree 2.64 Agree 2.63 Agree 4. Legal and Reporting 2.66 Agree 2.52 Agree 2.59 Agree Over-all Weighted Mean 2.69 Agree 2.61 Disagree 2.65 Agree * Legend: Rating Scale Range Verbal Description 4 3.26 – 4.00 Strongly Agree 3 2.51 – 3.25 Agree 2 1.76 – 2.50 Disagree 1 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Disagree Table 22 presents the consolidated weighted average mean of challenges encountered by School Heads and Teachers in the Third District of Senior High Schools regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy. The indicators assessed include Awareness on Training, Resource Constraints, Institutional Culture and Support, and Legal and Reporting. The overall weighted mean for School Heads is 2.69, interpreted as "Agree," and for Teachers, it is 2.61, also interpreted as "Agree." The composite mean of 2.65 suggests a general agreement that there are significant challenges in implementing the Child Protection Policy across these areas. The highest mean is for Resource Constraints, with a composite mean of 2.74. School Heads and Teachers agree on this issue, with mean scores of 2.81 and 2.66, respectively. This indicates that both groups perceive significant limitations in resources, which could include funding, dedicated personnel, and technological 141 support. Literature supports this finding, emphasizing that adequate resources are critical for the effective implementation of child protection measures (Kowalski & Smith, 2020). Without sufficient resources, schools struggle to provide necessary training, materials, and support systems for effective child protection. The lowest mean is for Legal and Reporting, with a composite mean of 2.59. School Heads and Teachers both agree on this challenge, with mean scores of 2.66 and 2.52, respectively. This reflects concerns about understanding legal requirements, reporting procedures, and maintaining confidentiality. Studies highlight the importance of clear legal guidelines and robust training to ensure proper handling and reporting of child protection cases (Johnson & Lee, 2022). The overall agreement on these challenges suggests that both School Heads and Teachers recognize the need for improvements in training, resources, institutional support, and legal clarity. The agreement across all indicators points to a systemic issue that requires comprehensive strategies to address. Training is crucial for equipping staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to recognize and respond to child protection issues. Resource constraints need to be addressed to ensure that schools have the necessary tools and personnel to implement policies effectively. Institutional support is vital for creating a culture that prioritizes child protection, and clear legal and reporting guidelines are essential for ensuring proper documentation and response to child protection cases. 142 The findings align with recent studies that emphasize the need for continuous professional development, sufficient resources, and clear institutional policies to support child protection initiatives in schools. For instance, Johnson and Lee (2022) argue that ongoing training and clear reporting protocols are essential for the effective implementation of child protection policies. Additionally, Brown and Green (2021) highlight the importance of resource allocation and institutional support in fostering a safe and protective environment for students. In conclusion, the challenges identified in this study underscore the need for comprehensive and sustained efforts to enhance the implementation of Child Protection Policies in Senior High Schools. Addressing these challenges will require coordinated efforts from school leadership, policymakers, and the community to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all students. Table 23. Significant Difference between the Level of Awareness of the School Heads and Teachers when grouped according to Demographic Profiles Profile Age Compu ted F or T value 23.97 Α Df p-value Decisio n Interpr etation 0.05 96.4 <0.001 Reject Ho Signific ant Critical F or T value 143 Sex 0.05 272 0.594 Accept Ho 0.05 277 0.092 Accept Ho 0.05 24.8 0.185 Accept Ho 0.05 79.4 <0.001 Reject Ho 0.284 Position Highest Educational Attainment Length of Service 2.86 1.71 10.50 Not Signific ant Not Signific ant Not Signific ant Signific ant Table 23 presents the significant differences between the level of awareness of school heads and teachers when grouped according to demographic profiles: age, sex, position, highest educational attainment, and length of service. Age: The computed F-value is 23.97, which exceeds the critical F-value at a significance level of 0.05 with 96.4 degrees of freedom, resulting in a p-value of <0.001. Therefore, the null hypothesis (Ho) was rejected, indicating a significant difference in the level of awareness based on age. This suggests that age significantly influences the level of awareness regarding child protection policies. Sex: The computed T-value is 0.284, which does not exceed the critical T-value at a significance level of 0.05 with 272 degrees of freedom, yielding a p-value of 0.594. Hence, the null hypothesis was accepted, indicating no significant difference in awareness levels based on sex. This means that male and female respondents have similar levels of awareness regarding child protection policies. Position: The computed T-value is 2.86, which is less than the critical T-value at a significance level of 0.05 with 277 degrees of freedom, resulting in a p-value of 0.092. Therefore, the null hypothesis was accepted, 144 indicating no significant difference in the level of awareness based on the position (school heads versus teachers). Highest Educational Attainment: The computed Tvalue is 1.71, which is less than the critical T-value at a significance level of 0.05 with 24.8 degrees of freedom, yielding a p-value of 0.185. Hence, the null hypothesis was accepted, suggesting no significant difference in awareness levels based on the highest educational attainment. Length of Service: The computed F-value is 10.50, exceeding the critical F-value at a significance level of 0.05 with 79.4 degrees of freedom, with a p-value of <0.001. Consequently, the null hypothesis was rejected, indicating a significant difference in awareness levels based on the length of service. This suggests that the duration of service significantly affects the level of awareness regarding child protection policies. The significant differences in awareness based on age and length of service imply that these factors are crucial determinants of how well school personnel understand and implement child protection policies. Older individuals and those with longer service durations tend to have higher awareness levels, potentially due to their extensive experience and accumulated knowledge over the years. In contrast, the lack of significant differences based on sex, position, and highest educational attainment indicates that these demographic factors do not play a substantial role in influencing awareness levels. This uniformity suggests that awareness programs and training initiatives on child protection policies are equally effective across different sexes, job positions, and educational backgrounds. 145 Studies in educational psychology and professional development highlight the importance of experience in enhancing awareness and competence in various domains, including child protection (Katz & Somers, 2019). Longer service duration allows for more training opportunities and practical encounters with child protection issues, thereby increasing awareness (Williams & Miller, 2019). On the other hand, the absence of significant differences based on sex aligns with findings that suggest gender does not inherently affect professional awareness or attitudes towards policy implementation (Sakurai, 2020). The analysis underscores the need for targeted professional development programs that cater to younger and less experienced staff to bridge the awareness gap. Ensuring continuous training and practical exposure for all school personnel, regardless of their demographic profiles, can foster a more uniformly high level of awareness and effective implementation of child protection policies, ultimately safeguarding student welfare. Table 24 Significant Difference between the Extent of Challenges of the School Heads and Teachers when grouped according to Demographic Profiles Profile Age Compu ted F or T value 5.37 Α Df p-value Decisio n Interpr etation 0.05 90.6 <0.001 Reject Ho Signific ant Critical F or T value 146 0.05 267 0.555 Accept Ho Not Signific Sex 0.350 ant 0.05 276 0.110 Accept Not Ho Signific Position 2.57 ant Highest 0.05 24.4 0.138 Accept Not Educational Ho Signific Attainment 1.96 ant Length of 0.05 78.7 <0.001 Reject Signific Service 6.37 Ho ant Table 24 presents the significant differences between the extent of challenges encountered by school heads and teachers when grouped according to demographic profiles: age, sex, position, highest educational attainment, and length of service. Age: The computed F-value is 5.37, which exceeds the critical F-value at a significance level of 0.05 with 90.6 degrees of freedom, resulting in a p-value of <0.001. Therefore, the null hypothesis (Ho) was rejected, indicating a significant difference in the extent of challenges based on age. This suggests that age significantly influences the extent of challenges faced regarding child protection policies. Sex: The computed T-value is 0.350, which does not exceed the critical Tvalue at a significance level of 0.05 with 267 degrees of freedom, yielding a p-value of 0.555. Hence, the null hypothesis was accepted, indicating no significant difference in the extent of challenges based on sex. This means that male and female respondents experience similar challenges in implementing child protection policies. Position: The computed T-value is 2.57, which is less than the critical T-value at a significance level of 0.05 with 276 degrees of freedom, resulting in a p-value of 0.110. 147 Therefore, the null hypothesis was accepted, indicating no significant difference in the extent of challenges based on position (school heads versus teachers). Highest Educational Attainment: The computed T-value is 1.96, which is less than the critical T-value at a significance level of 0.05 with 24.4 degrees of freedom, yielding a pvalue of 0.138. Hence, the null hypothesis was accepted, suggesting no significant difference in the extent of challenges based on the highest educational attainment. Length of Service: The computed F-value is 6.37, exceeding the critical F-value at a significance level of 0.05 with 78.7 degrees of freedom, with a p-value of <0.001. Consequently, the null hypothesis was rejected, indicating a significant difference in the extent of challenges based on the length of service. This suggests that the duration of service significantly affects the extent of challenges faced in implementing child protection policies. The significant differences in challenges based on age and length of service imply that these factors are critical in determining the extent of difficulties faced by school personnel. Younger individuals and those with less service duration tend to encounter more challenges, possibly due to a lack of experience and familiarity with child protection protocols and resources. In contrast, the absence of significant differences based on sex, position, and highest educational attainment indicates that these demographic factors do not substantially influence the extent of challenges. This uniformity suggests that the challenges related to the implementation of child protection policies are consistently perceived across different sexes, job positions, and educational backgrounds. 148 Literature in educational management and child protection highlights the role of experience and tenure in overcoming challenges related to policy implementation (Gould et al., 2018). Experienced staff are more adept at navigating resource constraints and institutional hurdles, while newer staff may struggle due to a lack of practical exposure and mentoring (Finkelhor, 2020). The uniformity across sex and position aligns with studies suggesting that challenges in policy implementation are generally systemic and not confined to specific demographic groups (Jones & Traylor, 2019). The analysis underscores the need for tailored support and mentoring programs for younger and less experienced staff to help them overcome challenges in implementing child protection policies. Ensuring consistent training and resource allocation for all school personnel, irrespective of their demographic profiles, can mitigate the challenges faced and enhance the overall effectiveness of child protection initiatives, thereby ensuring a safer environment for students. Table 25 Significant relationship between the level of awareness and the extent of challenges encountered by the respondents Extent of Challenges Understa nding of Reporting Procedur es Familiarity with Policy Content Awarenes s of Support Resource s Knowledg e of Signs and Indicators Awarenes s on Legal and Obligation s Training and Professio nal 149 Developm ent Awareness Training in Pearson's r p-value Resources Constraints Pearson's r p-value Institutional Culture and Support Pearson's r p-value Legal and Reporting Pearson's r p-value 0.94 0.659 0.695 0.666 0.695 0.631 < .001 < .001 < .001 < .001 < .001 < .001 (Significan t) (Significant ) (Significant ) (Significant ) (Significant ) (Significant ) 0.614 0.873 0.622 0.654 0.617 0.573 < .001 < .001 < .001 < .001 < .001 < .001 (Significan t) (Significant ) (Significant ) (Significant ) (Significant ) (Significant ) 0.248 0.271 0.358 0.236 0.258 0.243 < .001 < .001 < .001 < .001 < .001 < .001 (Significan t) (Significant ) (Significant ) (Significant ) (Significant ) (Significant ) 0.434 0.438 0.426 0.611 0.355 0.333 < .001 < .001 < .001 < .001 < .001 < .001 (Significan t) (Significant ) (Significant ) (Significant ) (Significant ) (Significant ) Based on Table 25, the analysis of the significant relationships between the level of awareness (understanding of reporting procedures, familiarity with policy content, awareness of support resources, knowledge of signs and indicators, awareness of legal obligations, and training and professional development) and the extent of challenges encountered by respondents (awareness in training, resource constraints, institutional culture and support, legal and reporting). There is a strong positive correlation (Pearson's r ranging from 0.573 to 0.94) between awareness in training and all aspects of awareness (reporting procedures, policy content, support resources, signs and indicators, legal obligations, and training 150 and professional development). This indicates that higher awareness in training correlates with higher awareness across other domains. The correlations are statistically significant (p < .001), suggesting a robust relationship. Resource constraints also show significant positive correlations (ranging from 0.573 to 0.873) with awareness levels across different domains. This implies that schools experiencing more resource constraints tend to have lower levels of awareness across reporting procedures, policy content, support resources, signs and indicators, legal obligations, and training and professional development. Again, all correlations are statistically significant (p < .001). The correlations with institutional culture and support are weaker compared to the other domains but still significant (ranging from 0.236 to 0.358). This suggests that a supportive institutional culture is somewhat associated with higher levels of awareness across different aspects of child protection policies. There are moderate positive correlations (ranging from 0.333 to 0.611) between legal and reporting aspects and the other awareness domains. This indicates that clearer understanding and adherence to legal obligations and reporting procedures are associated with higher overall awareness of child protection policies. The findings suggest that awareness in training and resource constraints play pivotal roles in shaping the overall awareness levels of school heads and teachers regarding child protection policies. Schools that invest in comprehensive training programs and 151 have sufficient resources tend to exhibit higher awareness across various aspects of child protection. Conversely, challenges such as inadequate resources or insufficient training can hinder awareness and readiness to handle child protection issues effectively. Recent studies emphasize the critical importance of training and resource allocation in enhancing awareness and implementation of child protection policies (UNICEF, 2023). Schools that prioritize ongoing professional development for staff and allocate adequate resources are better equipped to recognize, respond to, and prevent child abuse and neglect (Murray et al., 2021). Furthermore, a supportive institutional culture that values child protection and compliance with legal obligations fosters an environment conducive to effective policy implementation (Brown & Green, 2021). In conclusion, addressing challenges related to training, resource constraints, and institutional support is crucial for improving awareness and ensuring the successful implementation of child protection policies in schools. By addressing these factors, schools can enhance their capacity to protect the well-being of students and create safer learning environments. Based on the results of the study, policy notes can be proposed to improve the implementation of Child Protection Policies in senior high schools under DepEd Quezon 152 Policy Notes on Child Protection Policy Implementation in Senior High Schools of the Third District, Quezon Province Introduction The safety and well-being of students in senior high schools is a paramount concern for educators, administrators, and policymakers. The Third District of Quezon Province, under the Department of Education (DepEd) Quezon, is committed to enhancing child protection policies to create a secure and supportive learning environment. This document outlines key policy enhancements aimed at improving the implementation and effectiveness of child protection measures in senior high schools within the district. Rationale Effective child protection policies are essential to safeguard students from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The demographic profile of school heads and teachers, including their training and awareness levels, significantly impacts the implementation of these policies. Addressing gaps in training, resources, and 153 awareness can lead to more robust and effective child protection practices, ensuring that all students have a safe educational experience. Objectives 1. Enhance the capacity of educators to implement child protection policies effectively. 2. Increase awareness and understanding of child protection issues among all school stakeholders. 3. Establish clear and efficient reporting procedures for child protection issues. 4. Provide adequate support services and resources for effective policy implementation. 5. Regularly monitor and evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of child protection policies. 6. Ensure compliance with national and local child protection regulations. 7. Foster a supportive relationship with educational authorities to enhance child protection efforts. Policy Enhancements 1. Training and Professional Development Objective: Enhance the capacity of school heads and teachers to implement child protection policies effectively. 154 Recommendations: Comprehensive Training Programs: Conduct regular and mandatory training sessions focused on child protection, legal responsibilities, and reporting mechanisms. Workshops and Seminars: Organize annual workshops and seminars with child protection experts to keep educators updated on best practices and new regulations. Continuous Professional Development: Encourage ongoing professional development courses related to child protection for educators. 2. Awareness and Sensitization Objective: Increase awareness and understanding of child protection issues among all school stakeholders. Recommendations: Awareness Campaigns: Conduct regular awareness campaigns within schools to highlight the importance of child protection policies. 155 Community Engagement: Involve parents and the local community in awareness programs to foster a collective responsibility towards child protection. Information Dissemination: Distribute informational materials such as brochures, posters, and handbooks outlining the rights of children and the responsibilities of educators. 3. Clear Reporting Procedures Objective: Establish clear and efficient reporting procedures for child protection issues. Recommendations: Standardized Protocols: Develop and implement standardized reporting protocols across all schools in the district. Anonymous Reporting Systems: Set up anonymous reporting mechanisms to encourage reporting without fear of retribution. Designated Child Protection Officers: Appoint and train designated child protection officers in each school to handle reports and follow through with appropriate actions. 156 4. Support Services and Resources Objective: Provide adequate support services and resources to ensure the effective implementation of child protection policies. Recommendations: Counseling and Psychological Support: Ensure access to counseling and psychological support services for affected students. Resource Allocation: Allocate sufficient resources for child protection activities, including training, awareness campaigns, and support services. Partnerships with NGOs: Collaborate with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and child protection agencies to augment school resources and expertise. 5. Monitoring and Evaluation Objective: Regularly monitor and evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of child protection policies. Recommendations: 157 Regular Audits: Conduct regular audits of child protection policy implementation across schools. Feedback Mechanisms: Establish feedback mechanisms for students, parents, and teachers to report on the effectiveness of child protection measures. Performance Indicators: Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success and areas for improvement in policy implementation. 6. Legal and Policy Framework Objective: Ensure that all child protection policies align with national and local regulations. Recommendations: Compliance with National Laws: Regularly review and update school policies to ensure compliance with national child protection laws and guidelines (e.g., DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012). Local Policy Adaptation: Adapt policies to address specific local challenges and cultural contexts within the Third District. 158 Policy Documentation: Maintain comprehensive documentation of all child protection policies, procedures, and incidents for accountability and transparency. 7. Engagement with Educational Authorities Objective: Foster a supportive relationship with educational authorities to enhance child protection efforts. Recommendations: Regular Communication: Maintain regular communication with DepEd Quezon and other relevant authorities to ensure alignment and support. Policy Advocacy: Advocate for policy changes and enhancements based on the identified needs and challenges within the Third District. Resource Support: Seek additional support and resources from educational authorities to bolster child protection initiatives. By addressing these key areas, the researcher hoping that the Third District of Quezon Province can significantly enhance the implementation and effectiveness 159 of child protection policies in senior high schools, ensuring a safer and more supportive environment for all students. Prepared by: IRENE RECHELLE R. FAJARITO Proponent and Researcher Chapter 5 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS This chapter provides a comprehensive summary of the study's key findings regarding the level of awareness and challenges encountered by school heads and teachers in the Third District of Senior High School concerning the implementation of Child Protection Policies. It synthesizes the main results, draws conclusions based on data analysis, and offers recommendations for policymakers, educators, and future researchers. The aim is to underscore the significance of effective child protection measures in enhancing student safety and well-being, and to propose actionable steps to address any identified challenges in their implementation. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS This study investigates the demographic profile of school heads and teachers, their level of awareness regarding Child Protection Policies, the extent of challenges they encounter in implementing these policies, and the relationships between these factors. The findings provide valuable insights into the current state of child protection policy implementation in senior high schools and suggest areas for improvement. The demographic profile of teachers in senior high schools indicates a predominantly midcareer, highly educated, and predominantly female workforce. Most teachers are aged between 39-44 years (67.8%) and hold Master’s degrees (61.0%). However, there is underrepresentation among younger and older 162 age groups, as well as male educators. Teachers I-III dominate (83.5%), suggesting a focus on day-to-day policy implementation, while Master Teachers (16.5%) provide strategic insights. The varied lengths of service highlight a mix of experienced and newer perspectives. Addressing gaps in age diversity and gender balance could enhance policy inclusivity and effectiveness. Both school heads and teachers generally agree on their familiarity with the policy content, with a composite mean of 2.73, indicating a high level of awareness of the child protection policy content. Respondents also agree on their understanding of reporting procedures for suspected child abuse cases, with a composite mean of 2.78, suggesting confidence in knowing how to handle and report such cases. There is general agreement on awareness of support resources available for child protection, with a composite mean of 2.84, showing that respondents know where to seek help for child protection issues. However, there is slight disagreement among teachers regarding their knowledge of signs and indicators of abuse, leading to a composite mean of 2.67, suggesting a need for more training in identifying potential abuse cases. Respondents agree on their understanding of legal obligations related to child protection, with a composite mean of 2.75, reflecting good awareness of legal responsibilities in child protection. Agreement on the adequacy of training and professional development is lower, with a composite mean of 2.53, indicating a need for improved training on child protection policies. Challenges in awareness and training are significant, with a composite mean of 2.64, highlighting the need for 163 enhanced training programs to improve understanding and implementation of child protection policies. Resource constraints are a major challenge, with a composite mean of 2.74, suggesting that insufficient funding and lack of resources are significant barriers to effective child protection. Challenges within institutional culture and support are indicated by a composite mean of 2.63, pointing to a need for stronger leadership and better collaboration among staff to address child protection issues effectively. Legal and reporting challenges are evident, with a composite mean of 2.59, underscoring difficulties in understanding and adhering to legal requirements and protocols for reporting child protection cases. Age and length of service significantly affect the level of awareness among respondents, with younger and less experienced staff facing more challenges. However, sex, position, and educational attainment do not significantly impact awareness levels. Age and length of service also significantly influence the extent of challenges encountered, while sex, position, and highest educational attainment do not show significant differences. There are significant relationships between the level of awareness and the extent of challenges, particularly in training and resource constraints, with higher awareness associated with fewer challenges in implementing child protection policies. Based on these findings, it is recommended that comprehensive training programs be implemented, focusing on the identification of abuse signs and indicators, and legal obligations related to child protection. Improved resource allocation is necessary to ensure sufficient funding and resources are available to 164 support child protection initiatives. Stronger institutional support is needed to foster a collaborative culture within schools and enhance leadership support for child protection efforts. Tailored interventions for younger and less experienced staff are also recommended to provide additional support and training, reducing the challenges they face in implementing child protection policies. These measures could significantly improve the implementation of child protection policies in senior high schools. CONCLUSIONS Based on the summary of findings derived, the following was concluded: 1. The demographic profile of teachers in senior high schools paints a picture of a predominantly mid-career, highly educated, and predominantly female workforce. With most teachers aged between 39-44 years and holding Master’s degrees, there is a strong foundation for policy implementation. However, gaps in age diversity, particularly among younger and older educators, and the underrepresentation of male teachers suggest opportunities for broader perspectives. While Teachers I-III drive day-to-day policy execution and Master Teachers offer strategic insights, leveraging this diversity could bolster the inclusivity and effectiveness of child protection policies in educational settings. 2. The assessment of awareness regarding Child Protection Policies among school heads and teachers reveals a solid understanding of policy content and reporting procedures, as indicated by composite means of 2.73 and 2.78, respectively. Both 165 groups demonstrate adequate awareness of support resources available for child protection (composite mean of 2.84). However, there is a need for targeted training to enhance teachers' knowledge of signs and indicators of abuse (composite mean of 2.67). Moreover, respondents exhibit a good grasp of their legal obligations related to child protection (composite mean of 2.75). Yet, the adequacy of training and professional development on child protection policies could be improved (composite mean of 2.53). Moreover, while there is strong awareness among school heads and teachers in crucial areas of child protection policies, enhancing training programs and focusing on improving knowledge of abuse indicators will further strengthen child protection practices in senior high schools, ensuring a safe environment for all students. 3. The assessment of challenges encountered in the implementation of the Child Protection Policy in the third district reveals several critical issues. Significant challenges exist in awareness and training, with a composite mean of 2.64, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced training programs to improve the understanding and application of child protection policies among school heads and teachers. Resource constraints pose a major obstacle, reflected in a composite mean of 2.74, highlighting insufficient funding and limited resources as significant barriers to effective child protection practices. Challenges within institutional culture and support are also evident, with a composite mean of 2.63, indicating a necessity for stronger leadership and improved collaboration among staff to effectively address 166 child protection issues. Moreover, legal and reporting challenges, with a composite mean of 2.59, underscore difficulties in comprehending and adhering to legal requirements and protocols for reporting child protection cases. Addressing these challenges comprehensively is essential to enhancing child protection measures and ensuring a safer environment for students in senior high schools. 4. Based on the analysis of demographic profiles and their impact on awareness levels regarding child protection policies among school heads and teachers, significant findings emerge. Age and length of service exhibit substantial influences on awareness, with older individuals and those with longer service demonstrating higher levels of understanding. This underscores the importance of experience in enhancing awareness through practical encounters and training opportunities. In contrast, sex, position, and highest educational attainment do not significantly affect awareness levels, indicating that training programs are equally effective across different demographic groups. These insights highlight the need for targeted professional development programs, particularly for younger and less experienced staff, to ensure uniform awareness and effective implementation of child protection policies across senior high schools. 5. The analysis of challenges encountered in implementing child protection policies among school heads and teachers reveals critical insights based on demographic profiles. Significant differences in challenges are noted based on age and length of service, indicating that younger and less experienced individuals face greater 167 difficulties, likely due to limited exposure and familiarity with protocols. In contrast, challenges related to sex, position, and highest educational attainment show no significant variations, suggesting uniform perceptions across different demographic groups. This underscores the systemic nature of challenges in policy implementation. To address these findings effectively, tailored support and mentoring programs should be implemented for younger staff, alongside consistent training and resource allocation for all school personnel, to enhance the effectiveness of child protection initiatives and ensure a safer environment for students. 6. Based on the analysis of significant relationships between awareness levels and challenges encountered in implementing child protection policies, several key insights emerge. Strong positive correlations highlight the critical role of training awareness in enhancing overall understanding across reporting procedures, policy content, support resources, signs and indicators, legal obligations, and professional development. Similarly, resource constraints negatively impact awareness levels, underscoring the importance of adequate funding and support. These findings underscore the need for prioritizing comprehensive training initiatives, addressing resource gaps, and fostering a supportive institutional culture to effectively implement child protection policies and ensure student safety in schools. 7. Based on the study's findings and proposed policy notes, the conclusion emphasizes the importance of enhancing child protection policy implementation in senior high schools within Quezon Province's Third District. By prioritizing 168 comprehensive training, effective resource allocation, and supportive institutional policies, schools can significantly improve their ability to safeguard students from abuse and create a safer learning environment. These measures are crucial for addressing existing challenges, supporting staff, and ensuring the effective implementation of child protection policies across all educational institutions involved. RECOMMENDATIONS Based on the conclusions derived, the following were concluded: 1. For policy makers and school administrators, enhance the inclusivity and effectiveness of child protection policies in senior high schools, it is recommended to address gaps in age diversity and gender balance among educators. Encouraging participation from younger and older teachers, as well as fostering a more balanced representation of male educators, can bring diverse viewpoints to policy discussions. This approach will not only enrich policy implementation strategies but also ensure that the perspectives of all educators are considered, leading to more comprehensive and responsive child protection measures in educational settings. 2. To the educational leaders, policy makers, and school administrators involved in senior high schools, it is crucial to prioritize the following targeted actions to enhance child protection practices: Implement Robust Training Programs: Develop and deploy comprehensive training initiatives aimed at improving teachers' understanding of signs and indicators of abuse. This focused training will empower educators to 169 effectively recognize and respond to potential cases of child abuse. Enhance Professional Development: Increase the frequency and quality of professional development opportunities tailored specifically to child protection policies. This effort will further equip school heads and teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge to implement robust child protection measures. Ensure Adequate Resource Allocation: Allocate sufficient resources and funding to support ongoing training and development endeavors. This includes provisions for essential materials, workshops, and expert consultations to sustain and strengthen child protection efforts. By implementing these recommendations decisively, educational leaders can significantly fortify child protection practices across senior high schools, fostering a safer and more supportive learning environment for all students. 3. To the policy makers, school administrators, and educational leaders in the third district, prioritize enhancing training programs for school heads and teachers to improve their awareness and understanding of child protection policies, focusing on identifying signs of abuse and effective reporting. Increase funding and resources dedicated to child protection initiatives to overcome current constraints and ensure robust policy implementation. Foster a supportive institutional environment with strong leadership and collaboration among staff, implement policies prioritizing child safety, and provide clear guidance on legal requirements to enhance child protection practices in senior high schools, ensuring safer learning environments for all students. 170 4. To educational leaders and policy makers involved in child protection policy implementation: prioritize targeted training for younger and less experienced school heads and teachers to enhance awareness of child protection policies, including abuse identification and reporting protocols. Implement continuous professional development with practical simulations to ensure consistent understanding across all staff. Utilize senior staff to mentor younger colleagues and foster a collaborative environment. Regularly review and adapt training programs based on feedback to meet evolving needs and challenges in child protection. These actions will enhance practices and promote a safe learning environment in senior high schools. 5. To the educational leaders and policymakers involved, prioritize developing tailored mentoring programs for younger and less experienced school heads and teachers to navigate challenges in implementing child protection policies effectively. Implement consistent training initiatives that address specific demographic needs, focusing on crucial skills like recognizing signs of abuse and adhering to reporting protocols. Allocate adequate resources and funding to support these initiatives and ensure the practical implementation of child protection measures in schools, thereby enhancing safety and fostering a secure environment for all students. 6. To the educational leaders and policymakers involved, it is recommended to prioritize comprehensive training initiatives aimed at enhancing awareness of child protection policies among school heads and teachers. Addressing resource constraints through adequate funding and support is crucial to ensuring effective 171 policy implementation. Additionally, fostering a supportive institutional culture will strengthen efforts to safeguard student well-being and create safer learning environments in schools. 7. The researcher should present these policy notes to the Division Office for approval and endorsement to the senior high school, school heads and teachers in the third district of Quezon for implementation. It is essential to emphasize thorough monitoring and evaluation by the researcher to facilitate necessary adjustments to the Policy Notes as needed. This proactive approach will ensure the effective implementation and continuous improvement of child protection policies across all schools within the district. References Anderson, P. (2018). The critical role of training in child protection policy awareness. Journal of Educational Development , 45(3), 123-135. Bandura, A. (1977). 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Perceived Outcomes of Child Protection Policies in the Third District of the Philippines: A Localized Study. Journal of Child Protection and Education, 9(1), 78-95. Santos, L. (2020). Adverse Consequences of Inadequate Child Protection Policy Execution: A Case Study in DepEd Quezon. Child and Youth Protection Journal, 15(4), 213- 230. Save the Children. (2017). Child Protection in Humanitarian Action: A Review of Global Policy and Practice. Save the Children. (2019). Ending Violence in Schools: A Review of Global Policy and Practice. Save the Children. (2020). Child https://www.savethechildren.org.uk/what-we-do/child-protection protection. Save the Children. (2020). Protecting Children in Schools: A Comprehensive Approach to Child Protection in Education Systems. 177 Scott, W. R. (2008). Institutions and Organizations: Ideas, Interests, and Identities. SAGE Publications. Smith, A., & Johnson, L. (2023). Legal frameworks and their role in child protection policy. Journal of Educational Law and Policy, 25(1), 58-75. Smith, H. (2020). Coping mechanisms and resource access among experienced educators. Educational Resources Quarterly, 17(3), 189202. Smith, J. (2020). "Age Diversity in Education: Trends and Implications." Journal of Education Research, 25(2), 123-145. Smith, J., & Brown, A. (2019). Enhancing Child Protection: Guidance for Schools. Palgrave Macmillan. Smith, J., & Brown, R. (2023). Legal aspects in educator training: Improving confidence and competence. Journal of Educational Training and Development, 31(2), 133-149. Smith, J., & Jones, R. (2018). Perceptions of Child Protection Policies in Educational Settings: A Comparative Study. Journal of Educational Policy, 25(3), 301-318. Smith, M., & Brown, N. (2018). Challenges in Implementing Child Protection Policies: A Global Perspective. Journal of Comparative Education, 22(4), 415-430. Smith, P., & Jones, L. (2023). Early detection and intervention in child protection. Journal of Child Welfare and Protection, 37(1), 67-82. Smith, R., & Brown, K. (2021). Effective training programs for child protection. Journal of Educational Training, 29(4), 215-230. Tan, C., & Reyes, M. (2021). Overcoming Challenges: Strategies for Effective Child Protection Policy Implementation. International Journal of Educational Development, 18(1), 78-95. Taylor, H., & Johnson, P. (2022). School environments and the importance of support resources. Journal of School Environment and Safety, 19(3), 147-162. 178 Taylor, J., & Wasicsko, M. (2020). Gender differences in child protection awareness. Journal of Gender and Education, 32(1), 33-48. Tucson, C. (2021). "Cultural Influences on Child Protection Practices." Philippine Educational Review, vol. 3, no. 01, pp. 78-101. UNESCO. (2017). Protecting Education from Attack: 2017 Safe Schools Declaration. Retrieved from http://www.teachingresourcescentral.org UNESCO. (2018). International Technical Guidance on Sexuality Education: An Evidence-Informed Approach. UNESCO. (2019). A guide for ensuring inclusion and equity in education. UNESCO Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1163/9789004416205 UNESCO. (2019). Global Status Report on School Violence and Bullying. Retrieved from http://www.studentsuccessnetwork.com UNESCO. (2019). Supporting Teachers for Child Protection in Education: A Review of International Practices and Policies. UNESCO. (2019). United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Retrieved from https://en.unesco.org/ UNESCO. (2020). Guidance on Reopening Schools and Ensuring the Continuity of Learning. UNICEF Philippines. (2019). Child Protection Policies and Practices in Philippine Schools. UNICEF Philippines. (2019). Child https://www.unicef.org/philippines/child-protection protection. UNICEF. (2017). Child Protection in Education: A Review of International Legal Instruments and Literature. UNICEF. (2017). Child Protection in Education: A Review of International Legal Instruments and Literature. UNICEF. (2018). Child protection from violence, exploitation, and abuse. https://www.unicef.org/protection/57929_51374.html 179 UNICEF. (2018). Child Protection in Education: A Review of International Legal Instruments. UNICEF. (2018). Child Protection Policy Implementation: Global Context. UNICEF. (2019). Guidelines for the Protection of Children from Violence. UNICEF. (2019). Teacher Professional Development for Quality Education. UNICEF. (2020). Child Protection in Schools: A Handbook for School Management. Retrieved from http://www.educationinsights.com UNICEF. (2020). Child Rights and COVID-19: Guidance Note. United Nations. (1989). Convention on the Rights of the Child. United Nations. (2017). Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education. Retrieved from http://www.edtechinnovations.com Veloso, M. (2019). Unraveling the Interplay: Examining Factors Affecting the Implementation of Child Protection Policies in Senior High Schools. International Journal of Educational Studies, 12(1), 76-91. World Bank. (2018). Investing in Teachers: Strengthening the Education Workforce for Child Protection. World Bank. (2018). World Bank Group. Retrieved from https://www.worldbank.org/ APPENDIX A LETTER TO SCHOOLS DIVISION SUPERINTENDENT April 29, 2024 Dr. ROMMEL C. BAUTISTA Schools Division Superintendent Sitio Fori, Brgy.Talipan Pagbilao, Quezon Sir: 180 The undersigned is a Doctor of Philosophy student in Educational Management who is conducting a study entitled “Level of Awareness and Extent of Challenges of Child Protection Policies In Senior High Schools In The Third District Of Quezon Province: Basis For Policy Notes”. I am in the process of writing my dissertation paper. In this connection, I would like to ask your permission in allowing me to administer the attached questionnaire to senior high schools in the Third District of Quezon. Thank you so much. Very Truly Yours, IRENE RECHELLE R. FAJARITO Doctor of Philosophy i Enducational Management Candidate Noted: DENNIS M. MARQUEZ, PhD. Adviser APPENDIX B DATA SHARING AGREEMENT 181 182 183 184 185 186 APPENDIX C 187 LETTER TO DISTRICT SUPERVISORS 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 APPENDIX D LETTER TO RESPONDENTS LEVEL OF IMPLEMENTATION AND AWARENESS OF CHILD PROTECTION POLICIES IN SENIOR HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE THIRD DISTRICT OF QUEZON PROVINCE: BASIS FOR POLICY NOTES Date: Subject: Request for Permission to Conduct Research Study Dear Respondents, I hope this letter finds you well. My name is Irene Rechelle R. Fajarito, a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management candidate at University of Perpetual Help. I am reaching out to you as I am currently conducting a research study entitled "Level of Implementation and Awareness of Child Protection Policies in Senior High Schools in the Third District of Quezon Province – Basis for Policy Notes" The primary aim of my research is to evaluate the current level of implementation and awareness of Child Protection Policies among senior high school administrators, and teachers within the Third District of Quezon Province. Through this study, I seek to gather valuable insights that can contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of child protection measures in educational institutions. As part of my research methodology, I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to conduct surveys and interviews with school heads, and teachers in the Third District. The information gathered will be strictly used for academic purposes and will be treated with utmost confidentiality. I understand the importance of obtaining formal approval for research endeavors, especially when involving educational institutions and their stakeholders. Therefore, I kindly request your permission to conduct this study within the senior high schools of the Third District of Quezon Province. I assure you that all ethical considerations and protocols will be strictly adhered to throughout the research process. Additionally, any data collected will be anonymized and used solely for the purpose of academic research. 196 Your support and cooperation in granting permission for this study would be invaluable, and I am more than willing to provide any additional information or documentation required. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Contact Information] if you have any questions or concerns regarding this research endeavor. Thank you very much for considering my request. I am looking forward to your favorable response. Sincerely, IRENE RECHELLE R. FAJARITO Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management Candidate APPENDIX E SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE 197 LEVEL OF IMPLEMENTATION AND AWARENESS OF CHILD PROTECTION POLICIES IN SENIOR HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE THIRD DISTRICT OF QUEZON PROVINCE Date: Subject: Request for Permission to Conduct Research Study Dear Respondents, I hope this letter finds you well. My name is Irene Rechelle R. Fajarito, a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management candidate at University of Perpetual Help. I am reaching out to you as I am currently conducting a research study entitled "Level of Implementation and Awareness of Child Protection Policies in Senior High Schools in the Third District of Quezon Province." The primary aim of my research is to evaluate the current level of implementation and awareness of Child Protection Policies among senior high school administrators, and teachers within the Third District of Quezon Province. Through this study, I seek to gather valuable insights that can contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of child protection measures in educational institutions. As part of my research methodology, I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to conduct surveys and interviews with school heads, and teachers in the Third District. The information gathered will be strictly used for academic purposes and will be treated with utmost confidentiality. I understand the importance of obtaining formal approval for research endeavors, especially when involving educational institutions and their stakeholders. Therefore, I kindly request your permission to conduct this study within the senior high schools of the Third District of Quezon Province. I assure you that all ethical considerations and protocols will be strictly adhered to throughout the research process. Additionally, any data collected will be anonymized and used solely for the purpose of academic research. Your support and cooperation in granting permission for this study would be invaluable, and I am more than willing to provide any additional information or documentation required. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Contact Information] if you have any questions or concerns regarding this research endeavor. Thank you very much for considering my request. I am looking forward to your favorable response. Sincerely, Irene Rechelle R. Fajarito Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management Candidate Part 1. Demographic Profile of Respondents Name: (Optional) ________________________ 198 Name of School: _________________________ Age ___ ___ ___ ___ 21 - 26 27 - 32 33 - 38 39 - 44 ___ ___ ___ ___ 45 - 50 51 - 56 57 - 62 63 above Highest Educational Attaintment ___ Bachelor’s Degree ___ With Masters Unit ___ Masters Degree ___ With Doctorate Unit ___ Doctorate Degree Sex ___ ___ Male Female Length of Service ___ 5 years and below ___ 6-10 years ___ 11 – 15 years ___ 16 - 20 years ___ 21 - 25 years ___ 26 and above Position ___ ___ ___ ___ Teacher I-III Master Teacher I-IV Head Teacher I- III Principal I-IV Part 2. Level of awareness of School Heads and Teachers regarding Child Protection Policies. 199 Please rate your level of agreement with the policy content of child protection using the Likert scale provided below. Choose the number that best represents your level of awareness, with 1 being the lowest and 4 being the highest. Likert Scale 1 2 3 4 Strongly Disagree Disagree Agree Strongly Agree Familiarity with Policy Content No. Indicators 1 I am aware with the overall objectives and goals outlined in our school's Child Protection Policies. 2 I have a basic understanding of the key components and provisions detailed within our school's Child Protection Policies. 3 I am knowledgeable about the rights and responsibilities outlined for educators and administrators in our school's Child Protection Policies. 4 I feel confident in my understanding of the reporting procedures specified in our school's Child Protection Policies. 5 I believe that I am well-informed about the support resources available for addressing child protection concerns as per our school's policies. Understanding of Reporting Procedures 1 2 3 (SD) (DA) (A) 4 (SA) 200 No. Indicators 1 I am knowledgeable about the specific steps to follow when reporting suspected cases of child abuse or neglect as outlined in our school's Child Protection Policies. 2 I understand the roles and responsibilities of educators and administrators in reporting incidents of child protection concerns according to our school's policies. 3 I feel confident in my ability to recognize and document signs of child abuse or neglect in accordance with the reporting procedures detailed in our school's Child Protection Policies. 4 I am aware of the appropriate channels and authorities to whom reports of suspected child abuse or neglect should be directed within our school's reporting procedures. 5 I have received adequate training and guidance on how to effectively report incidents related to child protection concerns as per the reporting procedures established in our school's policies. Awareness of Support Resources 1 2 3 (SD) (DA) (A) 4 (SA) 201 No. Indicators 1 I am aware of the support resources available within our school that provide assistance and guidance on matters related to child protection. 2 I know where to access information about support services and resources offered by external organizations or agencies to address child protection concerns. 3 I feel confident in my ability to utilize the available support resources within our school to address and respond effectively to child protection issues. 4 I am knowledgeable about the procedures for accessing counseling or mental health services for students affected by child protection issues within our school. 5 I understand the role of school personnel and support staff in providing assistance and support to students and families affected by child protection concerns. 1 2 3 (SD) (DA) (A) 4 (SA) 1 4 Knowledge of Signs and Indicators No. Indicators 2 3 202 (SD) (DA) (A) 1 I am familiar with the signs and indicators that may suggest a student is experiencing abuse or neglect. 2 I can recognize behavioral or physical signs in students that may indicate they are experiencing abuse or neglect. 3 I am knowledgeable about the appropriate steps to take if I suspect a student is being abused or neglected, based on the signs and indicators I observe. 4 I understand the importance of promptly reporting any signs or suspicions of abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities or school personnel. 5 I am confident in my ability to respond appropriately and effectively if a student discloses that they are experiencing abuse or neglect. Awareness of Legal Obligations (SA) 203 No. Indicators 1 I am familiar with the legal obligations outlined in Child Protection Policies regarding the reporting and handling of suspected cases of abuse or neglect. 2 I understand my legal responsibilities in ensuring the safety and well-being of students under Child Protection Policies. 3 I am knowledgeable about the legal consequences associated with failure to comply with Child Protection Policies and reporting procedures. 4 I am aware of the relevant laws and regulations that govern child protection and welfare in educational settings. 5 I feel confident in my ability to fulfill my legal obligations regarding child protection policies and procedures within the school environment. Training and Professional Development 1 2 3 (SD) (DA) (A) 4 (SA) 204 1 2 3 (SD) (DA) (A) No. Indicators 1 I have received adequate training on Child Protection Policies and procedures. 2 I feel confident in my understanding of the training materials related to Child Protection Policies. 3 I am aware of opportunities for ongoing professional development related to Child Protection Policies. 4 I believe that professional development activities related to Child Protection Policies are beneficial for enhancing student safety and well-being. 5 I actively seek out opportunities for further training and professional development in the area of Child Protection Policies. 4 (SA) Part 3. Extent of Challenges encountered in the third district regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy Please rate the following challenges you encounter regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy in the third district on a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 indicates 'Not a challenge' and 4 indicates 'Significant challenge. 1 2 3 4 Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Strongly Disagree 3.1. Awareness and Training 205 No. Indicators 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 Insufficient awareness among staff about the Child Protection Policy. Lack of comprehensive training programs on child protection for all school personnel. Difficulty in accessing up-to-date training materials and resources. Inadequate frequency of refresher courses on child protection policies. Limited understanding of child protection procedures among new staff members. 3.2. Resource Constraints No. Indicators 1 2 3 4 5 Insufficient funding for the implementation of the Child Protection Policy. Lack of dedicated personnel to manage child protection issues. Inadequate technological resources to support child protection initiatives. Limited availability of child protection materials and supplies. Challenges in allocating time for staff to engage in child protection training. 3.3. Institutional Culture and Support 206 No. Indicators 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 Resistance to change in implementing new child protection measures. Insufficient support from school leadership for child protection initiatives. Lack of collaboration among staff in addressing child protection issues. Inadequate integration of child protection policies into the school's daily operations. Limited engagement of parents and the community in child protection efforts. 3.4. Legal and Reporting No. Indicators 1 2 3 4 5 Confusion regarding the legal requirements for reporting child protection cases. Insufficient training on how to document and report child protection incidents. Lack of clear protocols for handling child protection reports. Challenges in maintaining confidentiality during the reporting process. Limited support from legal authorities in addressing reported child protection cases. Thank you for your participation! -ResearcherAPPENDIX F LETTER TO VALIDATORS VALIDATED QUESTIONNAIRES 207 Da16, 2019 April 29, 2024 FRANCIS GARCIA, PhD Master Teacher I Palsabangon Elementary School Pagbilao, Quezon Dear Sir: Good Day! The undersigned is a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management candidate who is conducting a study entitled “Level of Awareness and Extent of Challenges of Child Protection Policies In Senior High Schools In The Third District Of Quezon Province: Basis For Policy Notes”. I am in the process of writing my dissertation paper. In this connection, I would like to request your permission if you could validate my research instrument prior to the conduct of the study. Attached is the instrument to be used for gathering data related to my study. Thank you so much. Very Truly Yours, IRENE RECHELLE R. FAJARITO, MBA Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management Candidate Noted: DENNIS M. MARQUEZ, PhD. Adviser GENERAL CRITERIA IN THE EVALUATION OF THE QUESTIONNAIRE NAME OF RESEARCHER: Irene Rechelle R, Fajarito 208 TITLE OF RESEARCH: “Level of Awareness and Extent of Challenges of Child Protection in Senior HIgh Schools in the Third District of Quezon Province; Basis for Policy Notes: SCALE: Scale Value 5 4 3 2 1 Mean Range 4.50-5.00 3.50-4.49 2.50-3.49 1.50-2.49 1.00-1.49 Interpretation Very Satisfactory (VS) Satisfactory (S) Moderately Satisfactory (MS) Less Satisfactory (LS) Not Satisfactory (NS) # CRITERIA 1 2 3 4 Is it organized in its proper format? Is the length reasonable, that is, not boring to fill up? Are the questions brief, clear and unequivocal? Are the responses objective requiring only check marks, single letters, numbers or words? Are the directions clear and unequivocal? Are all the questions relevant to the study? Are there enough and adequate categories for approximate replies? Are all questions worded carefully and in correct grammar? Are all the questions stated in the affirmative? Are there adequate and appropriate options or choices for multiple response questions? Are there catch-all words or phrases for multiple response questions? Are the respondents anonymous? Is the questionnaire free from all sorts of bias? Are the data to be gathered by the questionnaire adequate for the study? Is there a good cover letter to accompany the questionnaire? 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 VS 5 S 4 / / / MS 3 LS 2 NS 1 / / / / / / / / / / / / Comments/Suggestions: In Part 2 of your questionnaire, I suggest avoiding using opinionated words such as believe and feel. In Part 3, separate the staff from stakeholders (parents), for they have different knowledge on the child protection policy. There are questions need to be modified and specified clearly. Evaluated by: FRANCIS G. GARCIA, PhD Part 1. Demographic Profile of Respondents Name: (Optional) ________________________ Date: June 17, 2024 209 Name of School: _________________________ Age ___ ___ ___ ___ 21 - 26 27 - 32 33 - 38 39 - 44 ___ ___ ___ ___ 45 - 50 51 - 56 57 - 62 63 above Highest Educational Attaintment ___ Bachelor’s Degree ___ With Masters Unit ___ Masters Degree ___ With Doctorate Unit ___ Doctorate Degree Sex ___ ___ Male Female Length of Service ___ 5 years and below ___ 6-10 years ___ 11 – 15 years ___ 16 - 20 years ___ 21 - 25 years ___ 26 and above Position ___ ___ ___ ___ Teacher I-III Master Teacher I-IV Head Teacher I- III Principal I-IV Part 2. Extent of awareness of School heads and Teachers regarding Child Protection Policies. 210 Please rate your level of agreement with the policy content of child protection using the Likert scale provided below. Choose the number that best represents your level of awareness, with 1 being the lowest and 4 being the highest. Likert Scale 1 2 3 4 Strongly Disagree Disagree Agree Strongly Agree Familiarity with Policy Content No. Indicators 1 (SD) 1 I am aware with the overall objectives and goals outlined in our school's Child Protection Policies. 2 I have a basic understanding of the key components and provisions detailed within our school's Child Protection Policies. 3 I am knowledgeable about the rights and I Know responsibilities outlined for educators and administrators in our school's Child Protection Policies. 4 am I feel confident in my understanding of the I reporting procedures specified in our school's confident Child Protection Policies. 5 am I believe that I am well-informed about the I wellsupport resources available for addressing child protection concerns as per our school's informed policies. 2 3 (DA) (A) 4 (SA) 211 Understanding of Reporting Procedures No. Indicators 1 (SD) 1 I am knowledgeable about the specific steps I know… to follow when reporting suspected cases of child abuse or neglect as outlined in our school's Child Protection Policies. 2 I understand the roles and responsibilities of educators and administrators in reporting incidents of child protection concerns according to our school's policies. 3 I feel confident in my ability to recognize and I am able document signs of child abuse or neglect in to accordance with the reporting procedures recognize detailed in our school's Child Protection Policies. 4 I am aware of the appropriate channels and authorities to whom reports of suspected child abuse or neglect should be directed within our school's reporting procedures. 5 I have received adequate training and -to guidance on how to effectively report training incidents related to child protection concerns as per the reporting procedures established Other in our school's policies. question 2 3 (DA) (A) 4 (SA) 212 Awareness of Support Resources No. Indicators 1 (SD) 1 I am aware of the support resources available within our school that provide assistance and guidance on matters related to child protection. 2 I know where to access information about support services and resources offered by external organizations or agencies to address child protection concerns. 3 I feel confident in my ability to utilize the available support resources within our school to address and respond effectively to child protection issues. 4 I am knowledgeable about the procedures for I know accessing counseling or mental health about.. services for students affected by child protection issues within our school. 5 I understand the role of school personnel and support staff in providing assistance and support to students and families affected by child protection concerns. Knowledge of Signs and Indicators I have the ability to utiize 2 3 (DA) (A) 4 (SA) 213 No. Indicators 1 (SD) 1 I am familiar with the signs and indicators that may suggest a student is experiencing abuse or neglect. 2 I can recognize behavioral or physical signs in students that may indicate they are experiencing abuse or neglect. 3 I am knowledgeable about the appropriate I know the steps to take if I suspect a student is being appropriate abused or neglected, based on the signs and indicators I observe. 4 I understand the importance of promptly reporting any signs or suspicions of abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities or school personnel. 5 I am confident in my ability to respond I have the appropriately and effectively if a student ability… discloses that they are experiencing abuse or neglect. Awareness of Legal Obligations 2 3 (DA) (A) 4 (SA) 214 No. Indicators 1 (SD) 1 I am familiar with the legal obligations outlined in Child Protection Policies regarding the reporting and handling of suspected cases of abuse or neglect. 2 I understand my legal responsibilities in ensuring the safety and well-being of students under Child Protection Policies. 3 I am knowledgeable about the legal I know consequences associated with failure to about… comply with Child Protection Policies and reporting procedures. 4 I am aware of the relevant laws and regulations that govern child protection and welfare in educational settings. 5 I feel confident in my ability to fulfill my legal obligations regarding child protection policies and procedures within the school environment. 2 3 (DA) (A) 4 (SA) 2 3 (DA) (A) 4 (SA) I have the ability to fulfill… Training and Professional Development No. Indicators 1 (SD) 215 1 have I have received adequate training on I adequate Child Protection Policies and training…. procedures. 2 have I feel confident in my understanding of I understanding the training materials related to Child of the …. Protection Policies. 3 are I am aware of opportunities for ongoing There many professional development related to opportunities Child for ongoing prof dev related to child…. Protection Policies. 4 I believe that professional development Professional activities related to Child Protection devt acts…. Policies are beneficial for enhancing student safety and well-being. 5 I actively seek out opportunities for Modify further training and professional development in the area of Child Protection Policies. Part 3. Extent of Challenges encountered in the third district regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy Please rate the following challenges you encounter regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy in the third district on a scale from 1 to 5, where 1 indicates 'Not a challenge' and 5 indicates 'Significant challenge. 1 2 3 4 Strongly Disagree Disagree Agree Strongly Agree 216 3.5. Awareness and Training No. Indicators 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 Insufficient awareness among staff about the Child Protection Policy. Lack of comprehensive training programs on child protection for all school personnel. Difficulty in accessing up-to-date training materials and resources. Inadequate frequency of refresher courses on child protection policies. Limited understanding of child protection procedures among new staff members. 3.6. Resource Constraints No. Indicators 1 2 3 4 5 Insufficient funding for the implementation of the Child Protection Policy. Lack of dedicated personnel to manage child protection issues. Inadequate technological resources to support child protection initiatives. Limited availability of child protection materials and supplies. Challenges in allocating time for staff to engage in child protection training. 3.7. Institutional Culture and Support No. Indicators 217 1 2 3 4 5 Resistance to change in implementing new child protection measures. Insufficient support from school leadership for child protection initiatives. Lack of collaboration among staff in addressing child protection issues. Inadequate integration of child protection policies into the school's daily operations. Limited engagement of parents and the community in child protection efforts. 3.8. Legal and Reporting No. Indicators 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 Confusion regarding the legal requirements for reporting child protection cases. Insufficient training on how to document and report child protection incidents. Lack of clear protocols for handling child protection reports. Challenges in maintaining confidentiality during the reporting process. Limited support from legal authorities in addressing reported child protection cases. Thank you for your participation! -Researcher- April 29, 2024 NERISSA D. NAÑADIEGO, PhD 4 218 SST III Talipan National High School Pagbilao, Quezon Dear Mam: Good Day! The undersigned is a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management candidate who is conducting a study entitled “Level of Awareness and Extent of Challenges of Child Protection Policies In Senior High Schools In The Third District Of Quezon Province: Basis For Policy Notes”. I am in the process of writing my dissertation paper. In this connection, I would like to request your permission if you could validate my research instrument prior to the conduct of the study. Attached is the instrument to be used for gathering data related to my study. Thank you so much. Very Truly Yours, IRENE RECHELLE R. FAJARITO, MBA Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management Candidate Noted: DENNIS M. MARQUEZ, PhD. Adviser GENERAL CRITERIA IN THE EVALUATION OF THE QUESTIONNAIRE NAME OF RESEARCHER: Irene Rechelle R, Fajarito 219 TITLE OF RESEARCH: “Level of Awareness and Extent of Challenges of Child Protection in Senior HIgh Schools in the Third District of Quezon Province; Basis for Policy Notes: SCALE: Scale Value Mean Range Interpretation 5 4.50-5.00 Very Satisfactory (VS) 4 3.50-4.49 Satisfactory (S) 3 2.50-3.49 Moderately Satisfactory (MS) 2 1.50-2.49 Less Satisfactory (LS) 1 1.00-1.49 Not Satisfactory (NS) (As far as I know, iniiwasan po ang Likert Scale na odd ang bilang to avoid neutral answer of respondents/evaluators. You may use 4, 3, 2 and 1, VS, S, LS and NS respectively) (Include introductory statement here before the table) # CRITERIA (Is there any parameter that can be use in the criteria to make it more specific. The statements below are too broad. You may divide it according to applicable parameter) VS 5 S 4 A. In terms of… 1 Is it organized in its proper format? / 2 Is the length reasonable, that is, not boring to fill up? (You may rephrase this one.) / 3 Are the questions brief, clear and unequivocal? / 4 Are the responses objective requiring only check marks, single letters, numbers or words? 5 Are the directions clear and unequivocal? / 6 Are all the questions relevant to the study? / / MS 3 LS 2 NS 1 220 7 Are there enough and adequate categories for approximate replies? / 8 Are all questions worded carefully and in correct grammar? / 9 Are all the questions stated in the affirmative? / 10 Are there adequate and appropriate options or choices for multiple response questions? / 11 Are there catch-all words or phrases for multiple response questions? / 12 Are the respondents anonymous? / 13 Is the questionnaire free from all sorts of bias? / 14 Are the data to be gathered by the questionnaire adequate for the study? / 15 Is there a good cover letter to accompany the questionnaire? / Comments/Suggestions: ______________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ Sorry if I also include comments in the evaluation criteria � These are additional input that you may use in your future studies and researches. Evaluated by: NERISSA D. NAÑADIEGO, Ph Date: June 18, 2024 (Name and Signature of the Evaluator) (Introductory statement first. Short paragraph that will introduce or describe your study) 221 Part 1. Demographic Profile of Respondents Name: (Optional) ________________________ Name of School: _________________________ Age ___ ___ ___ ___ 21 - 26 27 - 32 33 - 38 39 - 44 ___ ___ ___ ___ 45 - 50 51 - 56 57 - 62 63 above Highest Educational Attaintment ___ Bachelor’s Degree ___ With Masters Unit ___ Masters Degree ___ With Doctorate Unit ___ Doctorate Degree Sex ___ ___ Male Female Length of Service ___ 5 years and below ___ 6-10 years ___ 11 – 15 years ___ 16 - 20 years ___ 21 - 25 years ___ 26 and above Position ___ ___ ___ ___ Teacher I-III Master Teacher I-IV Head Teacher I- III Principal I-IV Part 2. Extent of awareness of School heads and Teachers regarding Child Protection Policies. 222 Please rate your level of agreement with the policy content of child protection using the Likert scale provided below. Choose the number that best represents your level of awareness, with 1 being the lowest and 4 being the highest. Likert Scale 1 Strongly Disagree 2 Disagree 3 Agree 4 Strongly Agree (You may arrange this one in descending order) Familiarity with Policy Content (You may present this in complete sentence form if possible (Short description will do) No. Indicators (You may use 4, 3, 2, 1 instead) 1 I am aware with the overall objectives and goals outlined in our school's Child Protection Policies. 2 I have a basic understanding of the key components and provisions detailed within our school's Child Protection Policies. 3 I am knowledgeable about the rights and responsibilities outlined for educators and administrators in our school's Child Protection Policies. 4 I feel confident in my understanding of the reporting procedures specified in our school's Child Protection Policies. 5 I believe that I am well-informed about the support resources available for addressing child protection concerns as per our school's policies. 1 2 3 (SD) (DA) (A) Understanding of Reporting Procedures (Same comment as above) 4 (SA) 223 No. Indicators 1 I am knowledgeable about the specific steps to follow when reporting suspected cases of child abuse or neglect as outlined in our school's Child Protection Policies. 2 I understand the roles and responsibilities of educators and administrators in reporting incidents of child protection concerns according to our school's policies. 3 I feel confident in my ability to recognize and document signs of child abuse or neglect in accordance with the reporting procedures detailed in our school's Child Protection Policies. 4 I am aware of the appropriate channels and authorities to whom reports of suspected child abuse or neglect should be directed within our school's reporting procedures. 5 I have received adequate training and guidance on how to effectively report incidents related to child protection concerns as per the reporting procedures established in our school's policies. 1 2 3 (SD) (DA) (A) Awareness of Support Resources (Same comment as above) 4 (SA) 224 No. Indicators 1 I am aware of the support resources available within our school that provide assistance and guidance on matters related to child protection. 2 I know where to access information about support services and resources offered by external organizations or agencies to address child protection concerns. 3 I feel confident in my ability to utilize the available support resources within our school to address and respond effectively to child protection issues. 4 I am knowledgeable about the procedures for accessing counseling or mental health services for students affected by child protection issues within our school. 5 I understand the role of school personnel and support staff in providing assistance and support to students and families affected by child protection concerns. 1 2 3 (SD) (DA) (A) 4 (SA) Knowledge of Signs and Indicators (Same comment as above) No. Indicators 1 2 3 4 225 (SD) (DA) (A) 1 I am familiar with the signs and indicators that may suggest a student is experiencing abuse or neglect. 2 I can recognize behavioral or physical signs in students that may indicate they are experiencing abuse or neglect. 3 I am knowledgeable about the appropriate steps to take if I suspect a student is being abused or neglected, based on the signs and indicators I observe. 4 I understand the importance of promptly reporting any signs or suspicions of abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities or school personnel. 5 I am confident in my ability to respond appropriately and effectively if a student discloses that they are experiencing abuse or neglect. Awareness of Legal Obligations (Same as above) (SA) 226 No. Indicators 1 I am familiar with the legal obligations outlined in Child Protection Policies regarding the reporting and handling of suspected cases of abuse or neglect. 2 I understand my legal responsibilities in ensuring the safety and well-being of students under Child Protection Policies. 3 I am knowledgeable about the legal consequences associated with failure to comply with Child Protection Policies and reporting procedures. 4 I am aware of the relevant laws and regulations that govern child protection and welfare in educational settings. 5 I feel confident in my ability to fulfill my legal obligations regarding child protection policies and procedures within the school environment. 1 2 3 (SD) (DA) (A) Training and Professional Development (Same as above) 4 (SA) 227 1 2 3 (SD) (DA) (A) No. Indicators 1 I have received adequate training on Child Protection Policies and procedures. 2 I feel confident in my understanding of the training materials related to Child Protection Policies. 3 I am aware of opportunities for ongoing professional development related to Child 4 (SA) Protection Policies. 4 I believe that professional development activities related to Child Protection Policies are beneficial for enhancing student safety and well-being. 5 I actively seek out opportunities for further training and professional development in the area of Child Protection Policies. (The indicators are well stated and able to measure what it intend to measure) Part 3. Extent of Challenges encountered in the third district regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy Please rate the following challenges you encounter regarding the implementation of the Child Protection Policy in the third district on a scale from 1 to 5, where 1 indicates 'Not a challenge' and 5 indicates 'Significant challenge. 1 2 Strongly Disagree Disagree 228 3 4 Agree Strongly Agree 3.9. Awareness and Training No. Indicators 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 Insufficient awareness among staff about the Child Protection Policy. Lack of comprehensive training programs on child protection for all school personnel. Difficulty in accessing up-to-date training materials and resources. Inadequate frequency of refresher courses on child protection policies. Limited understanding of child protection procedures among new staff members. 3.10. Resource Constraints No. Indicators 1 2 3 4 5 Insufficient funding for the implementation of the Child Protection Policy. Lack of dedicated personnel to manage child protection issues. Inadequate technological resources to support child protection initiatives. Limited availability of child protection materials and supplies. Challenges in allocating time for staff to engage in child protection training. 3.11. Institutional Culture and Support 229 No. Indicators 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 Resistance to change in implementing new child protection measures. Insufficient support from school leadership for child protection initiatives. Lack of collaboration among staff in addressing child protection issues. Inadequate integration of child protection policies into the school's daily operations. Limited engagement of parents and the community in child protection efforts. 3.12. Legal and Reporting No. Indicators 1 2 3 4 5 Confusion regarding the legal requirements for reporting child protection cases. Insufficient training on how to document and report child protection incidents. Lack of clear protocols for handling child protection reports. Challenges in maintaining confidentiality during the reporting process. Limited support from legal authorities in addressing reported child protection cases. Thank you for your participation! -Researcher*Good luck and advance congratulations Doc. � April 29, 2024 230 DR. ALBERT P. MERCADO Master Teacher II Buenavista National High School Buenavista, Quezon Sir: Good Day! The undersigned is a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management candidate who is conducting a study entitled “Level of Awareness and Extent of Challenges of Child Protection Policies In Senior High Schools In The Third District Of Quezon Province: Basis For Policy Notes”. I am in the process of writing my dissertation paper. In this connection, I would like to request your permission if you could validate my research instrument prior to the conduct of the study. Attached is the instrument to be used for gathering data related to my study. Thank you so much. Very Truly Yours, IRENE RECHELLE R. FAJARITO, MBA Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management Candidate Noted: DENNIS M. MARQUEZ, PhD. Adviser GENERAL CRITERIA IN THE EVALUATION OF THE QUESTIONNAIRE NAME OF RESEARCHER: Irene Rechelle R, Fajarito 231 TITLE OF RESEARCH: “Level of Awareness and Extent of Challenges of Child Protection in Senior HIgh Schools in the Third District of Quezon Province; Basis for Policy Notes: SCALE: Scale Value 5 4 3 2 1 Mean Range 4.50-5.00 3.50-4.49 2.50-3.49 1.50-2.49 1.00-1.49 Interpretation Very Satisfactory (VS) Satisfactory (S) Moderately Satisfactory (MS) Less Satisfactory (LS) Not Satisfactory (NS) # CRITERIA 1 2 3 4 Is it organized in its proper format? Is the length reasonable, that is, not boring to fill up? Are the questions brief, clear and unequivocal? Are the responses objective requiring only check marks, single letters, numbers or words? Are the directions clear and unequivocal? Are all the questions relevant to the study? Are there enough and adequate categories for approximate replies? Are all questions worded carefully and in correct grammar? Are all the questions stated in the affirmative? Are there adequate and appropriate options or choices for multiple response questions? Are there catch-all words or phrases for multiple response questions? Are the respondents anonymous? Is the questionnaire free from all sorts of bias? Are the data to be gathered by the questionnaire adequate for the study? Is there a good cover letter to accompany the questionnaire? 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 VS 5 S 4 / / / MS 3 LS 2 NS 1 / / / / / / / / / / Comments/Suggestions: ______________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ Evaluated by: DR. ALBERT P. MERCADO_____ (Name Name and Signature of the Evaluator) April 29, 2024 Date: June 18, 2024 232 DR. LUNINGNING R. MENDOZA Secondary School Principal IV Alabat Island National High School Alabat, Quezon Sir: Good Day! The undersigned is a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management candidate who is conducting a study entitled “Level of Awareness and Extent of Challenges of Child Protection Policies In Senior High Schools In The Third District Of Quezon Province: Basis For Policy Notes”. I am in the process of writing my dissertation paper. In this connection, I would like to request your permission if you could validate my research instrument prior to the conduct of the study. Attached is the instrument to be used for gathering data related to my study. Thank you so much. Very Truly Yours, IRENE RECHELLE R. FAJARITO, MBA Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management Candidate Noted: DENNIS M. MARQUEZ, PhD. Adviser GENERAL CRITERIA IN THE EVALUATION OF THE QUESTIONNAIRE NAME OF RESEARCHER: Irene Rechelle R, Fajarito 233 TITLE OF RESEARCH: “Level of Awareness and Extent of Challenges of Child Protection in Senior High Schools in the Third District of Quezon Province; Basis for Policy Notes: SCALE: Scale Value 5 4 3 2 1 Mean Range 4.50-5.00 3.50-4.49 2.50-3.49 1.50-2.49 1.00-1.49 Interpretation Very Satisfactory (VS) Satisfactory (S) Moderately Satisfactory (MS) Less Satisfactory (LS) Not Satisfactory (NS) # CRITERIA 1 2 3 4 Is it organized in its proper format? Is the length reasonable, that is, not boring to fill up? Are the questions brief, clear and unequivocal? Are the responses objective requiring only check marks, single letters, numbers or words? Are the directions clear and unequivocal? Are all the questions relevant to the study? Are there enough and adequate categories for approximate replies? Are all questions worded carefully and in correct grammar? Are all the questions stated in the affirmative? Are there adequate and appropriate options or choices for multiple response questions? Are there catch-all words or phrases for multiple response questions? Are the respondents anonymous? Is the questionnaire free from all sorts of bias? Are the data to be gathered by the questionnaire adequate for the study? Is there a good cover letter to accompany the questionnaire? 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 VS 5 S 4 / / / MS 3 LS 2 NS 1 / / / / / / / / / / Comments/Suggestions: ______________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ Evaluated by: DR. LUNINGNING R. MENDOZA__ (Name Name and Signature of the Evaluator) APPENDIX G Date: June 18, 2024 234 Certification of Statistical Analysis I, Dominador P. Domingo, PhD, RPm, hereby certify that I have conducted a thorough statistical analysis of the data provided for the study titled "Level of Awareness and Extent of Challenges of Child Protection Policy in the Third District of Quezon Province: Basis for Policy Notes." The statistical methods employed in this analysis include descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation coefficients, and significance testing to determine the relationship between various demographic profiles and the extent of challenges encountered by the respondents. Specifically, the following analyses were conducted: 1. Descriptive Statistics: Computed means for different age groups, highest educational attainment, sex, length of service, and position categories. 2. Pearson’s Correlation Coefficients: Evaluated the relationship between the level of awareness in various aspects of child protection policy and the extent of challenges encountered by the respondents. 3. Significance Testing: Used ANOVA and t-tests to determine if there were significant differences in the challenges faced by different demographic groups. The results indicated significant correlations and differences in several areas: - Age: Significant differences in awareness in training and resource constraints across different age groups. - Highest Educational Attainment: No significant differences found in awareness in training, resource constraints, institutional culture and support, and legal and reporting across educational levels. - Sex: No significant differences found between males and females in awareness in training, resource constraints, institutional culture and support, and legal and reporting. - Length of Service: Significant differences in awareness in training across different lengths of service. - Position: Significant differences in awareness in training, institutional culture and support, and legal and reporting among different position categories. All statistical tests were conducted using a significance level of α = 0.05. The findings are supported by a p-value of less than 0.001 in several instances, indicating strong statistical significance. The statistical analysis confirms the robustness of the data and supports the conclusions drawn in the study. Should you have any further questions or require additional analysis, please feel free to contact me. DOMINADOR P. DOMINGO, PhD, RPm Statistician June 29, 2024 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------This certification serves as an official confirmation of the validity and reliability of the statistical analysis performed for this study. APPENDIX H 235 CURICULUM VITAE IRENE RECHELLE REBANAL-FAJARITO 128 Ona St. Brgy. Poblacion Buenavista, Quezon Cel No. 0998-5775-475 rechelle0216@yahoo.com COMPETENCIES Professional Licensed Teacher Bookkeeping NC II holder With 18 years entrepreneurial experiences Has strong leadership, sales and marketing expertise Computer competent (MS Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Database Management & Internet Speak English and Filipino fluently Flexible, Hardworking & Goal-oriented WORKING EXPERIENCES 236 June 21, 2017 - present Secondary Teacher II Department of Education IV-A Buenavista Quezon June 03, 2014 – June 20, 2017 Administrative Officer I Department of Education IV-A Buenavista Quezon July 15, 2013 – June 02, 2014 March 16, 2009 – July 15, 2013 January 03, 2009 – March 15, 2009 Nov. 4, 2008 – Nov. 30, 2008 Local Legislative Assistant 1 Administrative Aide III 4Ps Municipal Link Survey Supervisor Local Government Unit Buenavista, Quezon June 01, 2007 – November 30, 2007 Secondary Teacher St. Lawrence Academy Foundation Buenavista, Quezon Jan. 1, 2007-March 03, 2017 Jan. 1, 2006-Dec. 30, 2006 Sept. 1, 2003 – Dec. 31, 2005 Regional Roving Bookkeeper Financial Analyst I Roving Bookkeper DSWD Regional Office Alabang Muntinlupa City Sept. 18, 2004- present Business Owner Skolastika Computer and Business Center Buenavista, Quezon EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT December 2016 Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education – 18 units Educational Quezonian Corporated Atimonan, Quezon September 2017 Bookkeeping NC III PHILTECH Gumaca, Quezon April 2006 Masteral in Business Administration Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation 237 Lucena, Quezon April 1999 Secondary Education PUP Lopez Laboratory High School Lopez, Quezon March 1995 Primary Education Buenavista Central Elementary School Buenavista, Quezon AchIevements Academic Excellence Award Cultural Organization Scholar District Best Innovator 2023 BUENNHSFEA President SY 2022-2023 District Best ResearchPaper 2023 International Teacher Awardee 2023 Instabright Best Research Paper 2024 Instabright Best Research Presentor 2024 SEMINARS ATTENDED INSTABRIGHT INTERNATIONAL LEADERSHIP JOURNALISM DISTRICT RESEARCH PLENUM ELEVATING TEACHING EFFECTIVENESS: A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO RPMS-DRIVEN CLASSROOM OBSERVATION AND HOTS FOR TEACHERS 1-3 EDUCATORS Buenavista National High Schoo, Buenavista, Quezon –Septermber 28-30, 2023 INTERNATIONAL MARATHON LECTURE ON EDUCATION ; "NEW APPOARCH , TRANSFORMING EDUCATION " July, 22-24, 2022 238 WEBINAR ON ENHANCING CLASSROOM-BASED ACTION RESEARCHER CAPABILITY OF BUENAVISTA NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL TEACHERS Buenavista National High Schoo, Buenavista, Quezon –November, 19-23, 2022 VIRTUAL IN - SERVICE TRAINING FOR TEACHERS ; TECHNIQUES AND LEARNING August 30 - September 02, 2021 MASSIVE ONLINE OPEN COURSE (MOOC): CONTENT BASED INSTRUCTION February 18 - March 18, 2019 RESEARCH PELUM 8.0 POSTER PRESENTER ( ENHANCING BOOKKEEPING COMPETENCY OF ABM-SHS STUDENTS IN BUENAVISTA NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL:BASIS FOR TUTORIAL USING IMPROVISED WORKSHEET ALIGNED WITH THE TESDA NATIONAL COMPETENCY ASSESSMENT) Sevilla Hotel Lucena City – March 15-16, 2019 INTERNATIONAL SEMINAR/TRAINING/WORKSHOP EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES IN TEACHING Tayabas City – March 01-03, 2019 ON INNOVATIVE & REGIONAL MASS TRAINING ON COMMON TOPICS FOR SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER Tagaytay Convention Center, Tagaytay City – June 23-26, 2017 PERSONAL INFORMATION Eldest daughter of Hoberto N. Rebanal(Ret) and Remedios De Belen Escobar (Deceased), 37 years of age, married, born on April 26, 1982 In Lopez, Quezon, a native Filipino, a Roman Catholic 5’1” inches tall and 100 lbs. IRENE RECHELLE REBANAL- FAJARITO