SCHOOL HEAD STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE EDUCATION QUALITY THROUGH SCHOOL LEADING PROGRAMS

Abstract

The quality of education in schools is a determining factor for the interests of community schools. School quality is translated into several school programs that are the branding of the school itself. Improving the quality of school quality cannot be separated from the role of the principal as a school leader (Yudi, 2012). School leaders certainly have a strategy that is considered appropriate to improve school quality, by looking at the potential quality of faculty, facilities and infrastructure, student performance and excellent school programs (Mahardhani, 2015). The strategy applied by school leaders to improve school quality through excellent programs is the key to school success in implementing these excellent programs (Saifulloh, Muhibbin, & Hermanto, 2012). Of course, the principal must prepare these programs carefully. Educational services are measured by the quality of teaching in schools. School quality is described in the curriculum which becomes a brand offered to the community as users of educational services provided by the school. The purpose of this study is to describe the principal's strategy in improving the quality of school education through the school's flagship program. This research was conducted at Ateuk Elementary School (SD) in Kuta Baro Subdistrict, Aceh Besar District, where a flagship program based on spirituality, learning and life skills is implemented. Qualitative research method, the research was conducted by interviewing the principal and teachers, then direct observation ie. observation and documentation. The resulting data were collected and recorded before being reduced and presented as field notes and interview transcripts. According to the results of the study, the school's main program has an effect on improving the quality of teaching.

Keywords: Strategy, Principal, Quality improvement, Excellent program.