Student Management in Developing Calligraphy Talent through Extracurricular Activities: A Qualitative Study at an Islamic Junior High School in Indonesia

Abstract

Student management plays a strategic role in facilitating students’ holistic development, particularly in nurturing talents through extracurricular activities. This study aims to analyze student management practices in developing students’ calligraphy talents through extracurricular programs at SMP Plus Darus Sholah Jember, an Islamic junior high school in Indonesia. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, data were collected through observations, semi-structured interviews, and documentation involving school principals, student affairs coordinators, calligraphy mentors, and participating students. Data analysis followed the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña, encompassing data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing.The findings reveal that student management in the calligraphy extracurricular program is implemented systematically through integrated planning, organizing, implementation, and evaluation processes. Talent development begins with early identification and structured program planning, supported by clear organizational roles and collaborative coordination. Program implementation emphasizes not only technical calligraphy skills but also character building, discipline, and spiritual values. Evaluation is conducted continuously to monitor students’ progress and program effectiveness. Supporting factors include strong leadership commitment, mentor professionalism, and student motivation, while limited facilities and time constraints emerge as inhibiting factors. The study concludes that effective and integrated student management significantly contributes to the success of extracurricular-based talent development and provides practical implications for strengthening student management practices in similar educational contexts.