The primary goal of in-service training (INSET), according to Billing (1976), is a purposeful and continuous process involving the identification and discussion of current and future needs of individual teachers. It aims to advance their job satisfaction and career prospects, as well as address the needs of the school to support its academic work and plans .

Including professional development topics such as Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) in the INSET at Jovito H. Sayson National High School is significant because it equips teachers with advanced cognitive teaching strategies that go beyond mere recall of facts. HOTS involves the development of analytical, evaluative, and creative skills in students, which are essential in fostering critical thinking and problem-solving. This inclusion ensures that teachers can facilitate learning that prepares students to handle complex problems, thus aligning educational outcomes with 21st-century skills requirements .

Conducting the in-service training on November 25-29, 2024, at Jovito H. Sayson National High School allows teachers to focus on professional development during a period when there might be fewer classroom responsibilities. This timing enables teachers to learn and implement new skills and techniques promptly in the academic year, which can lead to immediate improvements in teaching methodologies and student engagement. This contributes to enhancing the professional development of teachers, aligning with the school's and the Department of Education’s goals .

INSET programs enhance teachers' careers and job satisfaction by addressing the current and future needs of teachers through continuous professional development. These programs enable teachers to acquire new skills and modern techniques, which can lead to better job performance and opportunities for career advancement. This, in turn, increases job satisfaction as teachers feel more competent and valued in their roles. The alignment of their personal growth with institutional goals also contributes to a more fulfilling professional experience .

The focus on MATATAG Curriculum implementation in the INSET program supports the overall educational objectives of the Division of Bacolod City by ensuring that teachers are well-equipped to deliver contemporary educational content that aligns with national standards. By concentrating on this curriculum, the INSET ensures teachers can adapt and apply curriculum changes effectively, which enhances the consistency and quality of education provided in the region. This alignment with the curriculum ensures that teachers contribute efficiently to achieving the educational goals set at the division level .

In-service training plays a dual role in addressing the needs of individual teachers and the academic plans of institutions. For individual teachers, it focuses on identifying personal professional development areas, such as enhancing job satisfaction and career prospects by equipping them with new skills and techniques. For institutions, it aligns the teachers' upgraded skills with the school's academic goals, such as implementing new curricula and educational standards, by providing activities and programs that synchronize personal and institutional needs. This comprehensive approach ensures cohesive growth and improvement across both dimensions .

The INSET at Jovito H. Sayson National High School aligns with national educational standards and goals by focusing on crucial areas such as the MATATAG Curriculum implementation, Inclusive and Sexuality Education, and professional development topics like HOTS, and subjects such as English and Mathematics. This comprehensive approach ensures teachers acquire new skills and modern techniques to effectively perform their jobs, directly correlating with the educational attainment of teachers, which is in line with the Department of Education's goals and vision .

The components of the INSET program at Jovito H. Sayson National High School include the MATATAG Curriculum implementation, Inclusive and Sexuality Education, and professional development topics on HOTS, along with subjects such as English and Mathematics. These components reflect interdisciplinary teaching practices by integrating diverse educational needs and approaches, such as incorporating skills that transcend individual subject areas, promoting a holistic development in teaching practices. This interdisciplinary focus allows teachers to apply learned techniques across different subjects and student demographics, fostering a more inclusive and comprehensive educational environment .

The INSET approach for 2024-2025 at Jovito H. Sayson National High School anticipates the evolving educational landscape by incorporating forward-thinking topics such as the MATATAG Curriculum, Inclusive and Sexuality Education, and professional development areas focused on HOTS. These elements prepare teachers to handle future educational challenges by fostering inclusivity, adaptability, and critical thinking, which are key in navigating the complexities of modern education. This proactive stance ensures that teachers are not only responsive but also leaders in adapting to educational changes and innovations .

Inclusive education is addressed in the INSET programs at Jovito H. Sayson National High School through specific focus areas such as Inclusive Education and Sexuality Education. By incorporating these topics into the training, the program ensures that teachers are better equipped to manage diverse classroom environments and meet the needs of all students, regardless of their background or abilities. This approach promotes equality and accessibility in education, ensuring that all students receive a quality education that accommodates their unique needs. The INSET's emphasis on inclusivity reflects a commitment to developing teaching practices that are equitable and adaptive to a variety of learning environments and student demographics .