Challenges and Opportunities in Strengthened Senior High School Program Implementation: A Case Study

Abstract

This qualitative case study examined the perspectives of Grade 11 teachers at Misamis Occidental National High School regarding implementation of the Strengthened Senior High School (SHS) Program during School Year 2025- 2026. Twelve purposively selected teachers representing the academic and technical-professional pathways participated in interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis identified six major challenge areas: resource and infrastructure constraints; classroom management and learner-related challenges; time constraints and curriculum demands; curriculum integration challenges; curriculum transition and adaptation challenges; and instructional delivery and pedagogical challenges. Opportunities included enhanced student participation and active learning, higher-order thinking and independent learning, teacher development and instructional innovation, work-based learning and skills development, career readiness and competency development, and holistic student development. Teachers emphasized differentiated and learner-centered instruction, technology integration, collaboration, professional development, adequate resources, curriculum alignment, and continuous monitoring as essential supports. The findings indicate that effective implementation depends on both teacher adaptability and a coordinated institutional support system.