Financial Stewardship Practices in Public Schools: Basis for Financial Management Enhancement Program

Abstract

This study examined the financial stewardship practices in public schools in Region XI using a descriptive quantitative research design. Specifically, it assessed practices in terms of budget planning, financial transparency, accountability, resource utilization efficiency, and financial monitoring and control. Data were collected from selected respondents using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using mean and standard deviation.
Findings revealed that financial stewardship practices were implemented at a moderate extent, with an overall mean of 2.87. Among the indicators, budget planning obtained the highest mean, while financial transparency and resource utilization efficiency were rated lower. The results indicate that while financial management practices are present, they are not consistently or fully implemented across schools. Variability in responses further suggests inconsistencies in financial practices.
The study concludes that there is a need to strengthen financial stewardship practices in public schools through enhanced training, improved transparency mechanisms, and stronger monitoring systems. Based on the findings, a Financial Management Enhancement Program was proposed to address identified gaps. The study contributes to the field of educational management by providing empirical evidence on financial practices and offering practical interventions for improving school financial governance.