PERANAN KEPALA MADRASAH DALAM SUPERVISI AKADEMIK UNTUK MENINGKATAKAN PROFESIONALISME GURU DAN PRESTASI PESERTA DIDIK DI MAN INSAN CENDEKIA PEKALONGAN JAWA TENGAH

Abstract

This study aims to describe and analyse the role of the *madrasah* principal in implementing academic supervision to enhance teacher professionalism and student achievement at MAN Insan Cendekia Pekalongan. The study is grounded in the importance of planned, systematic, and continuous academic supervision as a means to improve educational quality by strengthening teachers' professional competencies. A qualitative approach utilising a case study method was employed. Informants included the *madrasah* principal, the deputy principal for curriculum affairs, teachers, and students. The results indicate that the principal plays an active role in planning, implementing, and evaluating academic supervision activities. Strategies implemented include both individual and group approaches, accompanied by continuous professional guidance. The impact is evident in improved teacher skills regarding lesson plan (RPP) development and the use of technology-based media, as well as a strengthened work ethic. Enhanced teacher professionalism has positively influenced student learning outcomes, reflected in academic achievements. This study offers practical contributions in the form of recommendations for implementing collaborative and reflective academic supervision. The findings reinforce the principal's strategic role as an agent of change in improving educational quality through academic supervision. By adopting a participatory approach orientated toward continuous professional development, the principal is able to foster a productive and innovative learning culture. Furthermore, this study serves as a foundation for policy-making aimed at strengthening educational leadership capacity based on data and the actual needs of the educational institution.

Keywords: Academic Supervision, Teacher Professionalism, Madrasah Principal, Student Achievement, MAN Insan Cendekia Pekalongan.