RISKS AND MANAGEMENT IN SCHOOLS

Risk management in schools is essential to ensuring a safe and stable learning environment for students, teachers, and staff. This study examines the risks faced by school heads in both public and private schools in Bohol Province and evaluates the strategies they implement to mitigate these risks. Using a descriptive-qualitative research design, data were gathered through structured interviews with 30 school heads (15 from public schools and 15 from private schools). The study categorizes risks into three main areas: safety and security risks, operational risks, and community and stakeholder risks. Key concerns identified include student safety issues, financial constraints, lack of emergency preparedness, low enrollment rates, inadequate staffing, and limited stakeholder cooperation. To address these challenges, school heads employ risk management strategies categorized into safety and security management, operational management, and collaborative management. These strategies include emergency response planning, securing financial resources, strengthening stakeholder partnerships, implementing teacher training programs, and promoting policy compliance. Findings highlight the crucial role of strong leadership, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement in ensuring institutional resilience. The study emphasizes the need for an Action Plan for Risk Management, which incorporates proactive safety measures, financial sustainability initiatives, and community collaboration. By implementing these strategies, schools can enhance risk preparedness, minimize disruptions, and create a safer learning environment. These findings contribute to the broader discourse on educational risk management, providing valuable insights for policymakers, school administrators, and education stakeholders in improving governance and institutional stability.