Development of a Strategic Development Plan Based on the Management Practices and Challenges of Filipino School Heads in Thailand

This study examined the management practices and leadership challenges of Filipino school heads in Thailand as a basis for developing a strategic development plan. Employing a quantitative descriptive-correlational research design, the study involved 43 Filipino school heads and 154 Filipino teachers selected through purposive and proportionate sampling. Data were gathered using a validated researcher-made questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. Results indicated that the school heads possessed diverse demographic and professional profiles, with most belonging to middle adult age groups and holding varied academic qualifications. Management practices in instructional leadership, human resource management, financial management, stakeholder engagement, and school culture were perceived as highly implemented and highly effective. However, teachers consistently rated these practices lower than school heads, revealing perceptual gaps in leadership effectiveness and communication. Challenges related to cultural adaptation, human resource management, curriculum implementation, and external relations were assessed as moderately serious. Significant relationships were found between selected profile variables—particularly age, position, and educational attainment—and both the level of implementation and effectiveness of management practices. Significant perceptual differences between school heads and teachers further underscored the need for improved collaboration and transparency. Based on these findings, a strategic development plan was proposed to strengthen leadership capacity and address contextual challenges in international school environments.