This study examines the implementation of School-Based Management (SBM) in the 21 elementary schools of San Mariano I District for School Year 2023–2024. Its primary aim was to assess the current SBM level of practice, document best practices and issues, and analyze their impact on effective school governance. Employing documentary analysis and descriptive-correlational methods, data were gathered using a revised SBM Self-Assessment Tool and survey questionnaires completed by both internal and external stakeholders. Findings revealed that all schools were consistently rated as “Maturing” across the four SBM domains: Leadership and Governance, Curriculum and Learning, Accountability and Continuous Improvement, and Management of Resources. Best practices noted included strong teacher collaboration, community involvement, and transparent use of resources. Despite these strengths, challenges persisted in stakeholder engagement, curriculum flexibility, and equitable resource allocation. Perceptions of both internal and external stakeholders generally aligned, although differences emerged regarding curriculum adaptation. Statistical analysis showed a weak but positive correlation (r = 0.2229) between best practices and SBM level of practice. Interestingly, a very strong positive correlation (r = 0.9172) was found between identified issues and SBM level, indicating that addressing issues has a greater influence on SBM effectiveness than reinforcing existing best practices. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions, particularly in curriculum delivery, leadership training, and participatory governance. The results provide strategic insights for enhancing technical assistance plans and achieving more effective SBM implementation in the district.
Almazan et al. (Wed,) studied this question.