The Concept of Integrated Islamic Schools in the 21st Century: An Understanding among School Leaders in Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor, Indonesia

The main objective of the current study is to explore the understandings of school leaders in Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor (PMDG) about the concept of integrated Islamic schools in the present day. Using a qualitative case study approach, 10 school leaders from PMDG were interviewed. They included six school leaders, three senior teachers, and one senior staff who have important roles at PMDG and involve directly in students’ activities. Based on a thematic analysis, the findings revealed five main themes, namely (1) combining Islamic and modern education, (2) building school and community relationships, (3) integrating theory and practice, (4) producing open-minded persons, and (5) producing future education leaders. This study concludes that Indonesian Islamic schools combine pedagogy of learning based on Islamic principles and worldwide values. In terms of leadership and capacity building, a new strategy is enforced to produce well-balanced human beings for the success of both religious and worldly affairs.