School Principal Leadership in Fostering Students’ Character Development: Discipline, Responsibility, and Independence at SMP Negeri 4 Pekanbaru

Musaroh Musaroh; Sary Widya; Daeng Ayub

doi:10.67294/08sm3589

Authors

Musaroh Musaroh Universitas Riau Indonesia Author https://orcid.org/0009-0003-1123-0880
Sary Widya Universitas Riau Indonesia Author
Daeng Ayub Universitas Riau Indonesia Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1377-9522

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.67294/08sm3589

Keywords:

School Principal Leadership, Character Development, Student Discipline, Student Responsibility, Student Independence

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of school principal leadership in shaping students’ character of discipline, responsibility, and independence at SMP Negeri 4 Pekanbaru. This research employed a qualitative phenomenological approach involving 16 participants consisting of one school principal, five teachers, and ten students, selected through purposive sampling based on their involvement and understanding of the research phenomenon. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, and analyzed using data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that school principals play a crucial role in character formation through exemplary leadership, integration of character values into the school vision and mission, habituation programs, routine activities, supervision, and continuous evaluation. The strategies implemented include effective communication, motivation and appreciation, enforcement of school regulations accompanied by guidance, and collaboration with teachers, parents, and the community. Character development is supported by the principal’s commitment, involvement of school members, extracurricular activities, and family and community support. However, several challenges remain, including limited student awareness, insufficient parental supervision, peer influence, and uncontrolled use of technology and social media. This study highlights the importance of transformational and collaborative leadership in creating a school environment that supports sustainable student character development.

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