This study aimed to identify and analyze the profile of the school, school heads and teachers as well as the prevailing practices of the school heads and teachers of the top performing public elementary schools in the Division of Nueva Vizcaya. The respondent-schools were chosen based on the two criteria set by the researcher, as follows: a) schools that have maintained 75% and above school NAT MPS (national achievement test-mean percentage score) for two consecutive years, school years 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 in both grades three and six and b) schools that were recipients of various awards/recognition mostly conferred by the Division Office and some by the Regional/National Office. After the schools were identified based on the said criteria, the next question is: Why is it that these schools perform better than the others?

To address the research problem, this research utilized qualitative approach employing the case studies research method. Combined with face-to-face interviews, focused group discussion and documentary analysis.

This study derived the following conclusionsOn Profile of the Schools. Most of the top performing public schools were located outside the town proper and only three were situated with in the town proper.

On the Profile of the School Heads. Most school heads with an item as principal 1/2/3

have greater influence and better school achievements

On the Profile of Teachers. Experience is relatively necessary to the high performance of the school. Although teachers in the elementary schools are mostly comprised by females, there are also male teachers who perform well in their field of specialization

On the Practices of School Heads. School heads managing the top performing schools are doing their duties and responsibilities effectively and efficiently. The school heads mostly employ democratic leadership style The school heads monitor or supervise strictly the implementation of DepEd/school projects and activities especially for the pupils development

On Practices of the Teachers. The teachers are active and supportive to the programs of the school and the Department of Education in general. They use varied, visible, colorful and durable instructional materials that enhance effective delivery of instruction to the pupils Teachers also allocate extra time for review classes, remedial teaching and enhancement activities. These commonalities among top-performing schools in the Division have been established in this study.

Thesis (Master of Education - Educational Administration)

Includes appendices and bibliographical references.