<![CDATA[The principal's controlling function is one of the essential management functions that determines the effectiveness of educational administration and the performance of educational personnel in schools. Effective controlling enables school principals to monitor, evaluate, and improve the implementation of administrative duties while ensuring that organizational objectives are achieved efficiently. This study aims to analyze the implementation of the principal's controlling function in improving the performance of educational personnel at SMA Nidaul Qur'an Sarolangun, identify the strategies implemented by the principal, and examine the challenges encountered during the controlling process. This research employed a qualitative approach using a case study design. The study was conducted at SMA Nidaul Qur'an Sarolangun, Jambi Province. Research participants were selected through purposive sampling and consisted of the principal, the head of administration, and educational personnel. Data were collected through observations, semi-structured interviews, and documentation. The collected data were analyzed using the interactive model of data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing, while data credibility was ensured through source triangulation, technique triangulation, and member checking. The findings indicate that the principal implemented controlling systematically through the establishment of work standards, direct and indirect supervision, periodic evaluation, and continuous follow-up. These practices significantly contributed to improving work discipline, responsibility, administrative service quality, and the professionalism of educational personnel. The study also revealed several challenges, including the limited number of educational personnel, uneven competencies, workload distribution, and inadequate supporting facilities. To address these challenges, the principal strengthened coordination, continuous coaching, motivation, communication, and the optimization of available resources. The study concludes that effective controlling serves not only as a supervisory mechanism but also as a continuous professional development strategy that enhances the performance of educational personnel and supports the improvement of educational quality.]]>
