Bridging the Gap: Uncovering the Retirement Preparedness and Aspirations of Retirable School Heads

Retirement represents a significant life transition that extends beyond the completion of professional service, requiring adequate financial, psychological, legal, health, and social preparation. Despite the growing number of educators approaching mandatory retirement in the Philippines, limited research has examined how school heads prepare for this transition, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged communities. This study explored the retirement preparedness and aspirations of soon-to-retire school heads in the District of Maasim, Division of Sarangani. Using a qualitative narrative inquiry design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with five purposively selected school heads who were within five years of mandatory retirement. The interview guide was expert-validated, and the narratives were analyzed using narrative and thematic analysis. The findings revealed four major dimensions of retirement preparedness: financial planning and debt management, legal and administrative readiness, healthcare preparedness, and perceived institutional support. Although participants demonstrated awareness of the importance of retirement planning, many expressed uncertainty regarding retirement benefits, healthcare coverage, legal requirements, and long-term financial security. Participants likewise described retirement as an emotional transition characterized by uncertainty, optimism, and the desire to redefine purpose beyond professional leadership. Their aspirations centered on strengthening family relationships, remaining active in community service, pursuing meaningful personal activities, and achieving financial independence. The study further revealed that existing institutional support for retirement preparation was perceived as inadequate, particularly in the areas of financial literacy, retirement counseling, healthcare planning, and psychosocial support. These findings underscore the need for comprehensive pre-retirement programs that adopt a multidimensional approach to retirement preparation. The study contributes to educational leadership and retirement literature by providing context-specific evidence that may guide the Department of Education and other stakeholders in designing responsive retirement policies and support programs that promote the well-being and successful transition of Filipino educators into retirement.