Tantangan Guru dalam Membentuk Karakter Sopan Santun Siswa di Sekolah Dasar Negeri Saapan

Abstract

This study aims to describe the challenges faced by teachers in shaping students' politeness character at Sekolah Dasar Negeri Saapan. The background of this research arises from the phenomenon of decreasing student politeness, influenced by technological advancement, shifting parenting styles, and the declining role of social exemplars. Teachers, as the central figures in character formation, face various obstacles, both from students' internal factors, family environments, and the limited implementation of character education at school. This research used a qualitative descriptive approach with data collected through observation, interviews, and documentation with teachers and fifth-grade students at SDN Saapan. The results reveal that the main challenges include: (1) students’ low awareness of politeness values, (2) lack of parental support and supervision, (3) negative influence of social media and peer environment, and (4) limited time and facilities for continuous character education. Nevertheless, teachers strive to overcome these challenges through exemplary behavior, personal approaches, and collaboration with parents. This study concludes that building students’ politeness requires synergy between teachers, families, and the social environment to internalize moral values effectively.