The role of principal leadership in improving teacher competence at Darut Taqwa Senior High School as a driving school

This study aims to identify the role of principal leadership in managing SMA Darut Taqwa as a driving school to improve the quality of education through the development of teacher competencies, especially Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teachers. The principal acts as an agent of change who not only manages administration but also seeks to understand the professional needs of teachers and encourages a collaborative environment by providing access to relevant training. Through a qualitative research method with a case study approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with the principal and PAI teachers, as well as direct observation at SMA Darut Taqwa. The research findings show that the role of the principal is very important in improving the pedagogical, personality, professional, and social competencies of teachers through various strategies such as training, workshops, supervision, provision of complete learning facilities, and awards and the formation of learning communities. These programs strengthen the quality of teacher teaching, both in classroom management, use of learning media, and evaluation of student learning outcomes.