MPLS in Tangerang’s Elementary Schools Should Be More Than Just a Formality

Every July, as a new school year begins, elementary schools across Tangerang hold Masa Pengenalan Lingkungan Sekolah (MPLS). Officially, MPLS is designed to help students adapt to their new environment, meet their teachers, and build early friendships. But in practice, I often see it treated as a routine agenda — a checklist to complete rather than a meaningful experience for our children.

In my view, MPLS at the elementary level should be a joyful introduction to school life, not a stiff orientation. These are young children, many attending school for the very first time. Some are excited, but many feel anxious and overwhelmed by new faces, new rules, and new routines. Instead of simply giving them speeches about discipline and rules, schools could use MPLS to create lasting positive impressions.

Imagine if every MPLS day in Tangerang’s elementary schools included:

• Interactive tours of the school guided by older students,

• Fun learning games introducing classroom rules,

• Storytelling sessions about school values,

• And even short workshops for parents to help them support their children’s adjustment.

When MPLS is done well, it becomes a bridge — connecting home and school, easing fears, and building excitement. When it’s done poorly, it risks making children associate school with boredom or even intimidation.

I strongly believe Tangerang has the resources and creativity to lead by example. Schools, teachers, and parents can work together to ensure MPLS is not just about knowing where the toilets and canteen are, but about building a welcoming culture from day one.

✅ What do you think?

Have you or your children experienced MPLS that left a positive impression? Or do you have ideas to make MPLS more meaningful? Share your stories and thoughts in the comments — together we can make the first step into school life something every child in Tangerang will remember fondly. 🎈📚✨