The Role of Teachers in Fostering Akhlakul Karimah and Students' ‎Religious Attitudes at MI Ma'arif Labschool Sintang in 2026‎

Abstract

This study examines the role of teachers in fostering akhlakul karimah and students' religious attitudes at MI Ma'arif Labschool Sintang in 2026. The research was motivated by the growing importance of strengthening character education in Islamic elementary schools amid contemporary social and technological challenges, as well as the limited studies investigating the collective contribution of all teachers in developing students' moral character and religiosity. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation to explore teachers' educational practices within the natural school setting. The findings reveal that teachers perform multidimensional roles as educators, moral guides, facilitators, counselors, and role models (uswah hasanah) in shaping students' character. The cultivation of akhlakul karimah is implemented through exemplary behavior, religious habituation, classroom instruction, school culture, and continuous guidance. Religious activities, including congregational Dhuha and Dhuhr prayers, Qur'an recitation, respectful communication, discipline, and social responsibility, provide meaningful opportunities for students to internalize Islamic values and strengthen their religious attitudes. The study also highlights that effective character formation is supported by integrating moral values into daily learning activities and by fostering collaboration between teachers, parents, and the school community. This research contributes to Islamic education literature by offering a holistic framework that integrates instructional practices, role modeling, religious habituation, classroom management, counseling, supervision, school culture, and family collaboration in developing students' akhlakul karimah and religiosity. The findings suggest that comprehensive character education involving all teachers is essential for producing students with strong faith, noble character, and social responsibility.