*Your Attitude as a School Owner Determines Your Altitude* This statement brings to mind a session I had with a school owner who invited me to help revamp her school using my Clinical Diagnosis Program in Alimosho Local Government Area. On the day of my visit, I started with a meeting in her office, which was located directly opposite the school gate. I found this placement unusual because, in my experience, positioning a school owner's office in such a manner often turns them into the school’s unofficial "CCTV camera." It naturally draws their attention toward gatekeeping and micromanaging rather than focusing on higher-level leadership responsibilities. As if nature sought to reinforce this point, an incident unfolded right before my eyes. While I spoke with the proprietress, I noticed she wasn’t paying attention. Her eyes were fixed behind me, her expression tense. Curious, I turned around to see what had captured her attention. A young mother was approaching the office with a warm, contagious smile on her face. She greeted the proprietress cheerfully, clearly pleased to be there. However, the proprietress didn’t reciprocate the positive energy. Her face remained stern, and her first question was, "Why did you go into the classroom without my permission?" The mother, slightly taken aback, explained that her child had celebrated a birthday earlier in the week. The little boy had insisted that she bring some cakes, sweets, and soft drinks to share with his classmates. The mother had come to fulfill that innocent wish. Unfortunately, her explanation did not soften the proprietress’s stance. The school owner immediately began to scold her, emphasizing that she had broken school rules. Right there in my presence, she also summoned the class teacher and reprimanded her harshly for allowing the mother into the classroom without prior permission. I was deeply disappointed by the proprietress's response. The mother’s joy had been completely shattered, replaced with shock and embarrassment. The teacher, too, was visibly distressed. What should have been a heartwarming moment for the child, the parent, and the classmates turned into a scene of unnecessary conflict. I couldn't help but wonder about the lasting impression this encounter would leave on that parent. Would she still feel good about the school? Would she recommend it to others? Or would this experience become a story she’d share with friends and fellow parents—likely discouraging them from choosing the school in the future? This incident underscores a critical truth: A school owner's attitude can make or break relationships with parents, staff, and, ultimately, the school’s reputation. Why Does Attitude Matter? 1. First Impressions Are Lasting Impressions: Every interaction with a parent or visitor is an opportunity to create a positive impression. In the competitive world of education, word-of-mouth referrals can significantly influence enrollment numbers. A welcoming, positive attitude ensures that parents leave with a sense of trust and satisfaction. 2. Parents Want More Than Academics: Beyond curriculum and facilities, parents seek a nurturing environment for their children. If they perceive the leadership as unapproachable or confrontational, they will hesitate to commit to the school long-term. 3. Your Attitude Sets the Tone for the Entire School: School owners are role models for staff and even parents. If an owner demonstrates patience, respect, and empathy, these behaviors are more likely to be mirrored throughout the school community. On the other hand, negativity and micromanagement can create a toxic atmosphere. 4. Satisfied Parents Become Your Brand Ambassadors: When parents have positive experiences, they naturally share them within their circles. Happy parents become advocates who bring in more families. Conversely, one negative experience can travel even faster, damaging the school's reputation in ways that marketing efforts may struggle to repair. 5. Emotional Intelligence Is Key to Long-Term Success: Managing emotions, especially in moments of frustration, is essential. Emotional intelligence allows school owners to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. A simple smile, a word of appreciation, or a calm resolution can turn potential conflicts into opportunities to build loyalty. Practical Steps to Cultivate a Positive Attitude: Practice Active Listening: When interacting with parents, give them your full attention. Listen not just to respond, but to understand their perspective. Reframe Challenges as Opportunities: Instead of focusing on rule violations, seek to understand the intent behind an action. In the case of the birthday visit, the mother’s gesture was rooted in love for her child, not a disregard for rules. Train Staff to Prioritize Positive Engagement: Staff members take cues from leadership. Conduct regular training sessions on customer service, communication skills, and emotional intelligence. Create a Parent-Friendly Environment: Make parents feel welcome, not monitored. While safety protocols are important, a school should feel like a community, not a fortress. Regularly Reflect on Your Leadership Approach: Take time to evaluate how you handle different situations. Are you consistently approachable and kind? Are there patterns of behavior that might unintentionally push parents away? In conclusion, a positive, respectful attitude isn’t just a nice-to-have trait—it’s a crucial element for sustaining a thriving school community. School owners who lead with empathy, patience, and understanding are more likely to attract, retain, and delight families for years to come. Remember, parents may forget what you taught their children, but they will never forget how you made them feel.