The EduLegends Zenith Model of Crisis Leadership: Competencies and Response Strategies of School Heads of the National Capital Region

This study examined the crisis leadership competencies and crisis response strategies of experienced school heads, referred to as EduLegends, in the National Capital Region. Using a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, quantitative and qualitative data were collected through a researcher-developed questionnaire and open-ended responses. Results indicated high levels of crisis leadership competency and utilization of crisis response strategies among school heads. Regression analysis revealed that Strategic Thinking and Planning, Innovation and Technology Utilization, and Relationship-Building and Collaboration significantly predicted the extent of crisis response strategy utilization. Classification analysis further identified professional recognition and socioeconomic capacity as enabling conditions influencing crisis leadership competency. These findings informed the development of the EduLegends Zenith Model, which conceptualizes crisis leadership as a dynamic interaction between core leadership competencies, enabling conditions, and strategic responses. The study offers insights for educational leadership development and crisis preparedness in resource-diverse contexts.