Financial Management in Public Schools: A Single-Case Study

Abstract

This study explored the financial management realities of school administrators in public schools, focusing on their challenges, adaptation strategies, and shared insights in managing limited controlled funding and externally controlled resources. A qualitative single-case study design was employed, and data were gathered through an in-depth interview with a school administrator. The data were analyzed thematically to identify emerging patterns in financial management practices. The findings revealed three major areas. First, regarding financial management challenges, school administrators experienced insufficiency and constraints of financial resources, financial pressure and resource allocation dilemmas, and communication and transparency challenges. These were characterized by inadequate MOOE allocations, dependence on external funding sources, competing budget priorities, financial stress, and difficulties in explaining financial allocations to stakeholders. Second, in terms of adaptation strategies, the study identified strategic planning and financial organization, collaboration and stakeholder engagement, transparency and communication, and adaptive leadership and problem-solving. These strategies showed how administrators managed financial limitations through structured planning, stakeholder involvement, resource mobilization, transparent communication, and flexible decision-making. Third, in relation to shared insights, the findings highlighted the importance of planning and prioritization, transparency and accountability, collaboration as a key strategy, and leadership adaptability. These insights emphasized disciplined planning, openness in financial reporting, stakeholder participation, and resilient leadership in addressing financial constraints. In sum the study found that financial management in public schools was a complex and adaptive process shaped by limited resources and external dependencies. It concluded that effective financial management required strong leadership, collaboration, and transparent communication to sustain school operations and ensure continuous service delivery in public education settings.