Transformational Leadership and the Role of Teachers in Shaping the Social Character of Elementary School Students

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the implementation of transformational leadership of school principals and the role of teachers in shaping students' social character through Social Science (IPS) learning in elementary schools. The research approach used was qualitative descriptive with the subjects of school principals, grade IV teachers, and grade IV students at SDN Sebaung III, Gending District, Probolinggo Regency. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observations, and document analysis, then analyzed using data reduction techniques, data presentation, and conclusion drawn. The results of the study show that school principals implement transformational leadership through motivation, example, and continuous coaching that encourages teacher innovation in social studies learning. Teachers play an active role in instilling the values of responsibility, cooperation, empathy, and tolerance through group discussion strategies, simulations, and collaborative projects. Supporting factors include the principal's vision, positive school culture, and cooperation between school residents, while obstacles include limited facilities, learning time, and parental involvement. The findings of this study confirm the importance of synergy between principals and teachers in fostering students' social character, as well as the need to strengthen collaboration with parents and the community to create a sustainable character education ecosystem.