OPTIMALISASI KULTUR SEKOLAH BERBASIS PROGRAM SEBAGAI UPAYA PREVENTIF UNTUK MENCEGAH TINDAKAN PEMBULIAN DI SEKOLAH

Abstract

Bullying frequently occurs in school settings and not only affects students’ psychosocial well-being but also reflects weaknesses in character education systems within schools. This study aims to analyze strategies for optimizing school culture through a programmatic approach as a preventive effort to address bullying. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected through literature review, interviews, and documentation. The analysis resulted in several programmatic recommendations to foster an inclusive school culture, including: (1) the integration of local wisdom values, (2) a point-based quota system, (3) character camps, (4) the “PeKa” (Peduli Kawan) program, (5) “SAHABAT” (a transformation of the 5S principles), (6) “AKRAB” (Ajang Kreasi Anak Bangsa), and (7) the daily playing of anti-bullying songs. To ensure sustainability, these programs require capacity building for teachers, students, and staff, as well as continuous monitoring and evaluation. The findings indicate that bullying should be addressed through a combination of strategies, ranging from the enforcement of rules and sanctions to strengthening the role of schools in shaping students’ daily habits and perspectives as part of school culture. Local wisdom values serve as an approach closely connected to students’ experiences, making them more meaningful and easier to internalize. The recommended programs function not merely as supplementary activities but as spaces for habituation that cultivate empathy, self-awareness, and healthier patterns of interaction. These practices are expected to create safe and inclusive school environments that foster a sense of belonging, where the school community is experienced as a shared family.