Strategic Contribution of Direct Educational Funding through Governor-Provided Principal Allowances Toward Improving Graduate Quality in 2024 at Senior High Schools in Banten Province

This study aims to analyze the strategic contribution of direct educational costs and principal position allowances provided by the Governor to improving the quality of graduates at Senior High Schools (SMA) in Banten Province in 2024. The research employs a quantitative approach using the Pearson Product Moment correlation analysis technique. The study population includes Senior High Schools in three regions, South Tangerang City, Cilegon City, and Tangerang Regency, with a sample consisting of 9 principals and the school exam results of 37 students. Data were collected through a questionnaire instrument for variable X (principal position allowance from the governor) and documentation for variable Y (graduate quality in 2024 at high schools in Banten Province). The findings indicate a positive relationship between principal position allowances and students’ School Examination results, although the relationship falls within the moderate category. The Pearson correlation value of 0.427 suggests a tendency that higher principal allowances correspond to higher student learning outcomes. However, the relationship is not statistically significant. The significance value of 0.251 (> 0.05) and the t-count of 1.248, which is lower than the t-table value of 2.365, indicate that the correlation is not strong enough to be generalized to the wider population. Overall, the study shows that principal position allowances have potential in supporting educational quality but are not the main factor determining graduate outcomes. Quality improvement efforts must be carried out comprehensively by involving all components of education in an integrated manner.