Principal’s Role at SDI Ma’arif Blitar in Preserving Javanese Culture amid Social Change

Abstract

_{Education plays a crucial role in shaping individual competencies, particularly in mastering English and Javanese idioms. Amidst social change, there are challenges in preserving and maintaining local cultural values such as Javanese culture, which are eroded by the influence of social media that often presents Western traditions inconsistent with Javanese religious and cultural norms. This study aims to analyze the role of school principals in internalizing Javanese culture through Javanese Day. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, this study collected data through observation, interviews, and documentation studies at SDI Ma'arif Blitar. The findings indicate that the principal carries out four key roles relevant to Talcott Parsons' structural-functional perspective: Bearers of Normative Expectations who establish and enforce school rules; Formal Socialization Agents who internalize values through policies; Sanction and Reward Providers to manage student compliance; and Systemic Balance Keepers who maintain school stability. These roles are crucial in shaping a generation that is globally competitive yet remains firmly rooted in local culture}