<![CDATA[This study examines the application of sound governance principles in school budget management and their implications for financial performance at Salman Alfarisi Vocational School. Effective school financial management requires more than compliance with administrative procedures; it also depends on transparency, accountability, stakeholder trust, and the efficient allocation of educational resources. Accordingly, this study focuses on three key dimensions: compliance with accounting standards, accountability and public trust, and the efficiency of budget utilization. A qualitative case study approach was employed to explore how these principles are understood and implemented in the school's financial management practices. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, direct observations, and document analysis, and subsequently analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns, implementation challenges, and opportunities for improvement. The findings indicate that the school has made efforts to incorporate sound governance principles into its budgeting and financial management processes. However, challenges remain in maintaining consistent compliance with accounting standards, strengthening transparency and accountability in financial reporting, and ensuring that available funds are allocated efficiently according to institutional priorities. These findings highlight the importance of strengthening financial management competencies, improving communication with relevant stakeholders regarding budget allocation and expenditure, and adopting more adaptive budget planning practices. This study emphasizes that sound governance should be integrated into routine financial decision-making rather than treated solely as an administrative requirement. The findings provide practical insights for school leaders and financial administrators seeking to improve financial accountability, optimize resource utilization, and strengthen stakeholder confidence in educational institutions.]]>
