This study described the experiences and determined the process and practices of schools with advanced levels in the implementation of School-Based Management (SBM )in Dinalungan and Casiguran District in the Division of Aurora Philippines. The researcher employed the qualitative descriptive method of research where sixteen participants were interviewed, consisting of school heads, teacher coordinators, and community linkages such as the GPTA President and Barangay captain in the same Division. Thematic analysis and document analysis were utilized in generating the emerged five (5) themes, namely, 1. Planning of School-Based Management, 2. Strategizing and Implementing SBM, 3. Struggling the Rough Roads, 4. Transforming leadership, and 5. Achieving excellence at the end of the rocky road. Furthermore, survey participants discussed the school practices they employed to achieve the advanced level. Insights were also presented for the future growth of SBM implementation. The findings revealed that an excellent school’s management would have a significant impact on the quality of instruction provided to the students, the development of schools’ head leadership, the pedagogical skills of teachers, and its vital relationship to the community stakeholders. Based on the findings of this study and the emerged themes, the researcher has drawn the best practices and offered the 5I’s model, which can be utilized to achieve goals that ensure the long-term viability of school-based management. This will be useful for managing programs and projects that benefit both the schools and students by improving the existing practices, implementing the school-based leadership, and maintaining advanced levels in SBM.