This phenomenological inquiry explored the experiences of secondary school heads in performing their roles as financial managers of their schools in North District, Division of Panabo City. In exploring the experiences of the ten participants, I employed the qualitative – phenomenological study of which primary instrument of data gathering was through in- depth interview. Results revealed that the themes emerged on the experiences of school heads as financial managers, there were three major themes that emerged namely financial resource allocation and budget management, accountability and reporting, and strategic financial planning. Likewise, the major themes on the coping mechanisms of school heads as financial managers resource allocation and budgeting, financial literacy and professional development, and stakeholder engagement and accountability. Finally, on the insights of the participants, the emergent themes were resource optimization and prioritization, data-informed decision-making, and stakeholder collaboration and communication. Research implications for the study on financial management practices of school heads are crucial for advancing the field of educational leadership and financial management. Some implications include policy development and reform, professional development, stakeholder engagement strategies, best practice dissemination, and continuous research.  In sum, research on the financial management practices of school heads has broad implications that can influence policy, professional development, stakeholder engagement, best practices, and ongoing research in the field of education.

Financial practices

school heads

phenomenology

Panabo City