Principal's Managerial Competence in Actualizing a Creative School

A principal is required to have managerial competence for effective leadership; leading to the achievement of the school's goals. High managerial skills contribute to the management and optimization of human resources in the school. The study aims to review the principal's managerial competence in actualizing a creative school of SMP Muhammadiyah 3 Yogyakarta. The research employs a qualitative approach with a case study method. The samples, including the principal, teachers, educational staff, and students, were taken through a purposive and snowball sampling method. The data were collected using the triangulation technique, which is the combination of observation, documentation, and interview methods. The data were arranged in the form of text and they were analyzed using the interactive inductive technique. The study concluded that the principal's managerial competence in actualizing a creative school consists of three aspects: conceptual, technical, and interpersonal. Conceptual competence manifests in two ways: building the vision and mission and implementing networking-based innovative program. Technical competence takes the form of responsive management to changes, productive culture, as well as human resources development. Interpersonal competence is shown by collaborating with and humanizing the subordinates, trustfully and respectfully. The research implies the relevant parties involved in school development, particularly the educational board. The principal's managerial competence is a significant factor in establishing a creative school.