PRINCIPAL'S TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP PRACTICES AND THEIR IMPACT ON TEACHER PERFORMANCE: A QUALITATIVE STUDY AT SMAN 2 NEGERI BESAR

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the implementation of transformational leadership by the principal in improving teacher performance at SMAN 2 Negeri Besar. This research is important because teacher performance is one of the key factors determining the quality of the learning process; therefore, effective school leadership is needed to continuously strengthen teachers’ motivation, professionalism, innovation, and collaboration. This study employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive method. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation involving the principal, teachers, and educational staff. Data analysis was conducted through systematic stages of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that the principal implemented transformational leadership through four main indicators: exemplary behavior and integrity, the ability to motivate and inspire teachers, encouragement of learning innovation, and attention to teachers’ professional development. The implementation of this leadership approach contributed to improved teacher performance, particularly in lesson planning, learning implementation, learning evaluation, and professional competency development. Furthermore, transformational leadership contributed to a more conducive work environment, more open communication, and stronger collaboration among teachers. However, several challenges remained, including limited utilization of learning technology and uneven levels of teacher work motivation. Theoretically, this study reinforces transformational leadership as a leadership approach that can support the improvement of teacher performance. Practically, the findings imply that school principals need to strengthen teacher motivation, mentoring, professional development, and support for learning innovation continuously in order to improve the quality of education.