This study aims to describe how teachers at Betha Plus Elementary School interpret the essence of students as human beings and to examine how this understanding is reflected in their daily pedagogical practices. A qualitative approach with a case study design was employed to explore the construction of meaning and its implementation within the primary school context. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis, then analyzed using thematic analysis techniques. The findings indicate that teachers view students as multidimensional individuals who possess cognitive, emotional, moral, spiritual, and social aspects. This interpretation is shaped by humanistic, existential, behavioristic, psychoanalytic perspectives, and the values of Pancasila. The manifestation of these understandings can be seen in empathetic attitudes, differentiated learning strategies, sensitivity to students’ emotional conditions, structured yet flexible classroom management, holistic assessment, and value-based character education practices. This study highlights that teachers’ understanding of the essence of humanity plays a crucial role in shaping a humanistic and holistic approach to primary education.
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