Leadership Strategies for Building Inclusive School Communities: The Challenges of Managing Diversity in Schools

Abstract

This study aimed to explore effective leadership strategies for managing diversity in schools in the context of PAU Excellencia Global Academy Foundation, Inc. (PEGAFI) in the Philippines. The study utilized a qualitative approach, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews with six school leaders, including administrators, coordinators, and teachers. The findings revealed four key dimensions of effective leadership strategies for managing diversity in schools: building inclusive school culture, promoting collaborative leadership, addressing educational equity, and fostering effective communication. School leaders emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive school culture that values and respects diversity, promoting equity, providing equal opportunities, and integrating multicultural perspectives into the curriculum. Collaborative leadership was highlighted as a key strategy in managing diversity, with a focus on developing shared goals, building trust, and promoting effective communication. The study also identified challenges and barriers to effective leadership in managing diversity in schools, including lack of resources, resistance to change, and cultural biases. The findings have implications for school leaders and policymakers in the Philippines and other countries in developing effective strategies for managing diversity in schools.