Strengthening Students’ Character and Discipline through the Student Development Program at SMA Ar-Rahman Medan

Abstract

This study aims to describe the strengthening of students’ character and discipline through the student development program at SMA Ar-Rahman Medan. This study employed a qualitative approach with a case study design. The research participants included the principal, the vice principal for student affairs, the guidance and counseling teacher, homeroom teachers, student activity supervisors, and students of SMA Ar-Rahman Medan. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The data were analyzed through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results indicate that the student development program at SMA Ar-Rahman Medan has been implemented systematically through daily, weekly, and annual activities, including morning assemblies, the habituation of the 5S culture Senyum, Salam, Sapa, Sopan, dan Santun (Smile, Greet, Acknowledge, Be Polite, and Be Courteous) religious activities, student organization development, extracurricular activities, and the enforcement of school regulations. The program has proven effective in strengthening students’ religious character, discipline, responsibility, cooperation, leadership, and social awareness. The implementation of the program has also positively affected students’ discipline, as demonstrated by improvements in punctuality, compliance with school regulations, proper use of school uniforms, and active participation in various school activities. The program’s success is supported by the principal’s commitment, the active role of the vice principal for student affairs, teachers’ exemplary conduct, parental support, and a supportive school culture. The inhibiting factors include limited disciplinary awareness among some students, the influence of peer environments, and uncontrolled use of social media.