STRATEGI KEPEMIMPINAN KEPALA SEKOLAH DALAM PENGEMBANGAN BUDAYA RELIGIUS DI SMKN 8 MALANG

Abstract

The development of religious culture is an important effort in shaping students’ character through the continuous internalization of religious values within the school environment. The success of religious culture development is closely related to the principal’s leadership in designing policies, directing school members, and creating an environment that supports the implementation of religious values. This study aims to analyze the principal’s leadership strategies, the implementation of these strategies, and their outcomes in developing religious culture at SMKN 8 Malang. This research employed a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation involving the principal, vice principals, Islamic Religious Education teachers, and students. Data analysis used the Miles and Huberman model, consisting of data collection, data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that the principal’s leadership strategies were implemented through managerial strategies, role modeling, habituation, and empowerment of school members. These strategies were realized through religious programs such as prayers before and after learning activities, Qur’an recitation, congregational prayers, and the 5S culture (smile, greeting, salutation, politeness, and respect). These programs positively influenced students’ religiosity, discipline, responsibility, and active participation in creating a religious school environment.