<![CDATA[Background: Teacher professionalism, particularly in pedagogical competence, plays a critical role in the quality of the learning process and student outcomes. Understanding how teachers apply and develop their pedagogical skills is essential for enhancing educational effectiveness. Objective: This study aims to assess the professionalism of teacher performance in the learning process at SMP Negeri 1 Kepung, with a specific focus on pedagogical competence. Method: A qualitative-descriptive approach was employed. Data were gathered through observations, interviews, and documentation involving teachers and the principal. The data analysis process included data reduction, presentation, verification, and conclusion drawing. Result: The study identified three key aspects of pedagogical competence among teachers: (1) efforts to improve students' abilities, (2) effective performance during the learning process, and (3) strategic approaches to developing pedagogical skills. Conclusion: Teachers at SMP Negeri 1 Kepung exhibit professional pedagogical competence through various strategies aimed at improving student learning and instructional quality. Originality/Value: This study provides novel empirical insights in the field of educational management and teacher professional development by revealing the concrete practices and strategic development of pedagogical competence in classroom instruction regarding junior high school teacher performance within the context of a public secondary school setting (SMP Negeri 1 Kepung), an area that remains underexplored in localized qualitative studies. These findings enrich the empirical evidence and serve as a strategic reference for designing school-based continuous professional development programs and formulating targeted educational policies to enhance instructional quality.]]>
