<![CDATA[This study aims to analyze curriculum management strategies in improving learning services and student competence at SMP Negeri 1 Karawang Timur. The study used a descriptive qualitative approach through field observation, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussion, and document analysis. The data were obtained from school curriculum documents, lesson plans, learning activities, teacher and student information, and academic supervision records. The findings show that curriculum management has been implemented through four main functions: planning, organizing, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation. Curriculum planning is reflected in the preparation of the school curriculum document, syllabus, lesson plans, and academic calendar. However, several teachers still need stronger understanding of the Merdeka Curriculum, especially in differentiated learning and project-based learning. Curriculum organization has been supported by a clear school structure, but coordination across divisions, limited local-content teachers, and extracurricular facilities remain challenges. Curriculum implementation has encouraged varied learning methods, although conventional lecturing is still found in several classes. Monitoring and evaluation are conducted through classroom observation, interviews, questionnaires, and document review, but they need to measure academic, character, and social competence more comprehensively. The study recommends continuous teacher training, stronger learning communities, improved facilities, wider stakeholder involvement, and data-based curriculum evaluation.]]>
