Enhancing Educational Quality through Strategic Leadership: Insights from SMAN Unggul Aceh Selatan

This study explores the leadership strategies of the principal at SMAN Unggul Aceh Selatan, a high school in Indonesia, aimed at improving educational quality in a resource-limited setting. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were gathered through interviews, observations, and document analysis. The results show that the principal's use of transformational and instructional leadership has significantly improved teacher performance, student outcomes, and infrastructure. The integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and ongoing teacher professional development are key strategies contributing to these improvements. Despite challenges with limited resources, the school has seen steady gains in national exam scores and university admissions. The study highlights the crucial role of effective leadership in enhancing educational outcomes in resource-constrained environments.