UPAYA KEPALA SEKOLAH DALAM MENINGKATKAN MUTU PENDIDIKAN MELALUI STRATEGI KEPEMIMPINAN DI SEKOLAH MENENGAH PERTAMA

Abstract

Teaching and learning activities in Indonesia are still relatively low compared to other countries, so improving the quality of education requires efforts from various parties. This research is qualitative descriptive in nature, aiming to provide a detailed depiction of the principal’s efforts in improving the quality of teaching and learning activities (KBM) at the Junior High School level. The descriptive method is used to analyze qualitative data in the form of words, images, and documents, which cannot be measured numerically, allowing the researcher to understand the phenomenon comprehensively and according to the actual conditions.

The results of the study show that the principal actively implements various strategies to enhance the quality of KBM. These strategies include placing teachers according to their respective competencies to ensure smooth teaching and learning processes; attending and organizing training to improve teachers’ professionalism in managing KBM; providing continuous guidance and motivation to students through morning assemblies, face-to-face classroom interactions, and a structured mentorship mechanism; supplying adequate facilities, infrastructure, and learning media, including auditory, visual, and audiovisual resources; and conducting routine and spontaneous supervision to ensure the quality of the learning process.

Furthermore, the study found that the success of the principal’s efforts is supported by a consistent focus on their responsibilities and strong collaboration among the principal, teachers, and school staff. Inhibiting factors, such as the need to improve teacher discipline and limited funding, are addressed through direct supervision and innovative solutions, such as the establishment of a school cooperative. With a holistic, structured, and collaborative supervisory approach, the principal is able to effectively improve the quality of KBM, as reflected in the competitiveness of alumni, the creation of a conducive learning environment, and the community’s satisfaction with the school’s educational quality.