Needs Assessment of Students at Risk of Dropping Out in MAPEH: Basis for Student Retention Strategy

Student dropout remains a continuing challenge in secondary education, particularly among learners who gradually disengage due to unmet needs and persistent difficulties. This study assessed the needs and challenges of students at risk of dropping out in Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health (MAPEH) at Nueva Vizcaya General Comprehensive High School during the School Year 2025-2026, with the end view of developing a student retention strategy. A descriptive survey research design was utilized, and data were gathered through a researcher-made questionnaire administered to identified students at risk of dropping out. The instrument measured students’ levels of needs in terms of personal, academic, social, financial/material, family support, and teachers’/school support, as well as the extent of challenges experienced across personal, academic, social, financial, family-related, and school environment/teacher-related domains. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools. The findings revealed that students at risk of dropping out exhibited a high level of needs across all dimensions, with academic support, social interaction, family encouragement, and teacher guidance emerging as priority areas. Meanwhile, the extent of challenges experienced by the learners was generally moderate, particularly in relation to performance-based tasks, confidence during activities, access to learning materials, and balancing academic demands with family responsibilities. These results indicate that while the challenges are manageable, they require timely and targeted interventions to prevent further disengagement and potential dropout. Based on the findings, a Student Retention Strategy in MAPEH was developed. The strategy emphasizes holistic and learner-centered interventions that respond to identified needs and challenges. It is recommended that the school implement and continuously evaluate this strategy to strengthen learner engagement and promote sustained participation in performance-based learning areas such as MAPEH.

Disengagement, Dropout, Learner Needs, Support, Retention Program

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