Steemit Engagement Challenge S7W5/If I Were The Principal

I graduated 10 years ago, in 2013 from Federal Government Girls' College, it's a boarding school with few day students. Being in boarding has its advantages and disadvantages. The school tried to make learning comfortable for the students but there were issues most especially bullying of the younger students by senior ones.

There are so many things I wish I had learnt during my time in Secondary School. Yes, the principal tried for the students by hosting events but they weren't enough. Below, I have written concrete plans that I would implement if l were the principal of my Secondary School.

What would I do for the growth of your school in academics?

• Address Bullying in the school: I am not of the illusion that bullying can be stopped totally but it can be reduced. It is an everyday thing that people now assume that it is part of everyday activity. Senior students will bully Junior students because it is part of the school's tradition. One should be comfortable in their school environment. To curb this, students will be sensitized and educated about the repercussions should one be caught involved in such an act. CCTV Cameras will be placed in strategic corners of the school. This will help keep the students in check.

• Introduce new clubs to keep the students engaged.
  While we observed some club activities when I was in school, it was enough to keep the students engaged and excited. If I were the principal, I would design their syllabus to make being part of a club compulsory. No student should be left doing nothing, from these activities, they could also discover their passion. Each of these clubs would be hands-on, with no shortcut. The students would be expected to show evidence of full participation and they would be rewarded with encouraging words, gifts, trips, and money among other things.

• Entrepreneurship Programs: Now, people make the mistake of assuming that students should only concentrate on their studies. I don't have a problem with that, but they should also be equipped with some skills to prepare them for the world they would meet in the university in case any issue arises, they would not be left stranded but prepared for the situation. Both offline and digital skills will be taught to the students.

• Access to a well-equipped e-Library: Students should have access to an e-Library to make research and implement some of the things they have been taught.

What tips would I give to the teachers regarding the maintenance of discipline

To reprimand any students found violating the rules.
To be unbias when an issue is raised and settle it objectively.
To reward students who abide by the rules and regulations at the end of every session.

Do you think sports should be promoted at the school level? What would I do to encourage the athletes in my school?
Yes, sports should be promoted at the school level. Before I discuss what I would do to promote it, let me first talk about the necessity.

• It helps kids dealing with issues at hones, depression and anxiety by being an outlet for them to focus their efforts and thoughts and not dwell on whatever they are struggling with.
• It helps kids stay on track with their class activities.
• It improves their association with other students.
• It helps them stay challenged and hungry to win at all times.

How will I encourage athletes in my school?

• First, educate them about the benefits they would gain by being actively involved in sports.
• Discuss with parents of the benefits. Despite how independent teenagers claim to be, parents play a vital role in some of the decisions they make or take. Parents will be educated on how beneficial sports are. Parents who want their kids to stay active and on top of their games would encourage them.
• Upgrade the sports equipment and centres. One of the ways to entice your athletes with up-to-date equipment. This way they will feel happy working out in the centres.
• Host sports events. Sports are a fun way for young people to stay active. Most especially, when there is a contest within and outside the school. I would organize intra and inter-school sports.
• Celebrate the athletes for their efforts.

What would I do to provide an easy atmosphere for students to learn?

A positive atmosphere is a recipe to set up your students for success especially when they feel safe in their corners. It takes more than having a well-equipped classroom and trained teachers. It goes beyond understanding the needs of your students and finding ways to support them.

• Build rapport with the students. It is good to be formal with the students but sometimes, you get on their level. Try to understand the trends, their likes and dislikes, and the slangs they use. Encourage them to get them to trust you.
• Recognize when a student actually put in the effort to get the work done. Praising students goes a long way to push them forward when they want to give up.
• Employ well-trained teachers that can also be versatile when it comes to the students.
• Celebrate the students even for the smallest wins.
• Show the teachers to have the knowledge that every student's learning ability is different.
• Listen to the students for their opinions on some matters.

At last, tell us about the personality of my school principal at my matriculation level.

She was a stern woman who believes in discipline and order. She did her vest to carry every student along. During my matriculation level, she told us the various rules and regulations that we should abide by to have a stress-free period in school.