KONTRIBUSI KEPALA SEKOLAH DALAM MENGEMBANGKAN PROFESIONALITAS GURU DI SMP IT DARUSSALAM PLERED-PURWAKARTA

Abstract

Teacher professional development is an important aspect in improving the quality of education in schools. The principal has a strategic role as an educational leader in creating a conducive work environment, improving teacher competency, and encouraging learning innovation. This study aims to analyze the principal's contribution in developing teacher professionalism at SMP IT Darussalam Plered-Purwakarta. This study uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive study method. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation involving the principal, teachers, and education staff. Data analysis techniques were carried out through data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions to obtain a comprehensive picture of the principal's leadership practices. The results show that the principal plays an active role in improving teacher professionalism through training-based competency development, continuous academic supervision, and fostering a work ethic. In addition, the collaborative strategy implemented by the principal successfully fosters a professional and innovative work culture among teachers. This study concludes that the principal's contribution is very significant in optimizing the professional quality of teachers at SMP IT Darussalam Plered-Purwakarta. Visionary, communicative, and participatory leadership are the main factors supporting the success of teacher professional development efforts. These findings are expected to serve as a reference for improving the quality of school leadership at other levels of education.