Abstract
Madrasahs are recognized within Indonesia’s national education system and operate under school-based management principles, yet decision-making authority in privately administered institutions also intersects with foundation governance. This study examines how the regulatory position of madrasahs is translated into decisions concerning an Islamic educational flagship program at MTs Syarif Hidayatullah Wonopringgo. Using a qualitative single-case design, the study draws on semi-structured interviews with four participants and analysis of a 2012 program-establishment decision, the madrasah profile, and a 2026 parental consent document. Thematic analysis was informed by policy enactment and conditional autonomy. Findings indicate that the Tahfidh Nazham Imrithi program has a formal institutional basis: the foundation retains strategic approval authority, while the principal and teachers participate in deliberation, operational coordination, adaptation, and evaluation. Deliberation connects these spheres without removing the governing hierarchy. The pattern is interpreted as negotiated autonomy: meaningful operational discretion exercised within the foundation’s strategic approval boundaries. This case clarifies how school-based madrasah management is contextually and accountably enacted in a private, pesantren-affiliated institution through the harmonization of foundation authority, teacher professional discretion, and transparent parental informed consent Keywords : national education policy, madrasah autonomy, decision-making, policy enactment, Tahfidh Nazham Imrithi
