Manajemen Implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka dalam Upaya Meningkatkan Mutu Pendidikan di SMP RA Kartini Sei Rampah Kabupaten Serdang Bedagai

Abstract

The Merdeka Curriculum, as a national policy, has been implemented in various educational institutions in accordance with government circulars and policies; however, its implementation in the field still faces various challenges, particularly regarding human resource readiness and teachers’ limited understanding of how to implement the Merdeka Curriculum at RA Kartini Junior High School in Sei Rampah. This study employed a descriptive qualitative approach using a case study design. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation involving the principal, the vice principal for curriculum, teachers, and the chair of the school committee. Data analysis was conducted using the Miles and Huberman interactive model, which includes data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions and verification, with data validity checked through source triangulation and methodological triangulation. The research results indicate that the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum has proceeded in accordance with its basic principles, as reflected in the shift in the teacher’s role to that of a facilitator in student-centered learning, the integrated application of diagnostic, formative, and summative assessments, and the consistent implementation of the Pancasila Student Profile Strengthening Project (P5). The role of school management is carried out through participatory planning, administration by the principal in three roles (leader, facilitator, supervisor), and multi-source evaluation involving teachers, students, and parents. The challenges faced include variations in teachers’ competencies in developing instructional modules, limited learning resources, and the diversity of students’ learning abilities, which the school addresses through teacher learning communities, collaborative supervision, differentiated instruction, and expanded collaboration with the school committee and parents. In conclusion, the management of the Merdeka Curriculum implementation at RA Kartini Junior High School in Sei Rampah has proceeded systematically and has had a positive impact on efforts to improve the quality of education; however, it needs to be further strengthened, particularly in terms of digital technology readiness and more equitable parental involvement.