Strategi Kepala Sekolah Dalam Meningkatkan Profesionalisme Guru Paud Di Kecamatan Baruga

Abstract

The professionalism of PAUD teachers is a key factor in improving the quality of early childhood education services. Professional teachers are expected to be able to understand child development, manage play-based learning, implement authentic assessments, and create a safe and stimulating learning environment. This study aims to analyze the strategies of school principals in improving the professionalism of PAUD teachers through a managerial approach, academic supervision, and continuous competency development. The research method used a descriptive qualitative approach involving the principal and three teachers as key informants. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation, then analyzed using data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing techniques. The results showed that the principals implemented several main strategies, namely: (1) implementing structured academic supervision to monitor the learning process; (2) routine coaching through evaluative discussions and mentoring; (3) improving teacher competency through internal workshops, participation in external training, and strengthening learning communities; (4) providing learning facilities that support teacher creativity; and (5) providing motivation and awards as a form of professional reinforcement. These strategies contributed significantly to improving the quality of learning planning, the creativity of teaching media, and teachers' ability to manage the classroom. This study confirms that principal leadership plays a crucial role in establishing a professional culture in early childhood education (PAUD) settings, and the strategies implemented can serve as a reference for other institutions in improving the quality of early childhood education.