SUBMIT ARTICLE
ISSN: 2782- 893X
eISSN: 2799-0664

The Quality of Catholic Education Vis-à-Vis Philippine Catholic Schools Standards (PCSS) and Its Impact on Students’ Learning Outcomes: Basis for a Proposed PCSS Integration in Catholic Schools’ Policies, Standards, and Guidelines

IJAMS Publisher

AUTHOR(S)

JOVINER Y. LACTAM NATHANIELE A. DENLAOSO



ABSTRACT

— This study evaluates the quality of Catholic education in Zamboanga del Norte using the Philippine Catholic Schools Standards (PCSS) framework. The research examines how schools align with the five PCSS domains—Catholic Identity and Mission, Leadership and Governance, Learner Development, Learning Environment, and Operational Vitality—and assesses the framework’s impact on students’ academic performance and moral development. A descriptive correlational approach was employed, utilizing surveys, official student records (Form 137), and a checklist for observed values. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Spearman’s Rho correlation, and non-parametric tests to explore relationships in perceptions. The findings reveal high perceived alignment with the PCSS across all domains, a moderate positive correlation between quality education and academic performance, but a weaker correlation with observed values, indicating gaps in moral development outcomes. While Catholic schools excel in academic rigor and operational practices, the study identifies challenges in fully integrating faith formation into student behavior and character development. The study concludes that targeted strategies are needed to enhance the integration of faith-based values into curricula and daily practices. Recommendations include embedding PCSS standards into policies, fostering collaborative leadership, and implementing structured programs to strengthen values education. This research contributes to the broader dialogue on improving Catholic education in the Philippines, offering actionable insights for aligning operational practices with the mission of Catholic schools. Keywords — Catholic education, PCSS, student outcomes, moral development, academic performance