Charesma Grace K. Lud-ayen, Janice B. Aguinaldo, Pershalyn M. Almerol, Jojo Bautista, Kristina Virginia B. Bondad Jr., Ada Marie T. Campos, Jessica Curibang, Leslie Gechelle B. Dela Cruz, Jan Michael A. Fernandez, Evarista B. Gano, Patricio G. Ines, Aurora R. Laroya, Jeanette Manuel, Judith C. Mayat-an, Ma. Theda Mercado, Marvin P. Mitchell, Elizabeth B. Nabanalan, Angelyn L. Noble, Vivian G. Pinkihan, Gilbert F. Salvador, Leia Grace Elaine Unarce, Rhescien Mae B. Vicente
Graduate School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety
ABSTRACT
The purpose of the study was to identify the different factors of the child at risk in one of the elementary schools in Baguio City using qualitative research method. The study was participated by 18 key informants composed of five teachers, five parents, and eight children at risk. These participants of the study gave their consent during the one-on-one interviews conducted. The objectives of the study were to determine the (1) behaviors/conducts manifested by students who are at risk to dropping out, (2) causes why students become at risk of dropping out from school, (3) intervention done by the school, and (4) impact of the interventions done by the school. The study found out that personal weakness absenteeism, disengagement of student in class, financial problem and inactiveness due to malnutrition are the behavior’s and conducts manifested by students at risk of dropping out as perceived by teachers and principals. As to causes of being at risk to dropping out, the three set of respondents identified factors such as excessive internet use, peer pressure, laziness, absence of positive role model, financial insufficiency. Family problems, lack of parental supervision, transfer of residence, loss of interest in child’s future and truancy. Effects of children at risk to dropping out as perceived by parents are lack of initiative and ignorance to programs of government while lack of parental supervision and mandating the child to work were perceived by the teachers and principals. There are many interventions to prevent the child at risk to dropping out such as parent-teacher conference and house visitation, while counselling from parents, physical punishment as a form of discipline, appeal to emotional conscience, soliciting help from the teacher, home visitation, referral to guidance counsellor, adopt a child program, providing school materials and modules, talk the children one on one were done. Said interventions impacted the students greatly as it serves as a lesson to them, source of discipline, encouragement and improvement of behavior. Giving free school supplies to poor students and financial aid to sustain midday meals can boost interest to students to go to school. Parental involvement is also necessary for awareness of parents about academic performances of their children and that counselling maybe necessary for the parents of children who does not recognize the importance of education for their children. Creating a positive classroom environment and using technology wisely can attract engagement in classroom discussions. Existing intervention programs of the school must be sustained, strengthened and consistently implemented to ensure no drop out among the students.
Keywords: Child at Risk, Dropping out, School Intervention programs
