How I Started a School Every Parent Wants to Send Their Children To in Ughelli
By Dennis Eriawene
I remember the day it all began. The sun was high in the sky, casting a warm glow over Ughelli, and I was seated on my porch, sipping a cool drink and watching the kids play football in the dusty street. It was a typical afternoon, but my heart was heavy. I could see the potential in those children, the dreams they had but could easily slip away if not nurtured properly. Right then, I made a bold decision: I would start a school, a place where every parent would want to send their children.
The Seed of an Idea
Growing up in Delta State, I had my share of experiences with the education system. I attended schools that were filled with promise but often fell short. Some teachers didn’t care, and resources were scarce. I knew that education could be so much more. I wanted to create a space that was not just about passing exams but where children could thrive, explore, and discover their passions.
With that vision in mind, I started to gather my thoughts. You see, starting a school isn’t just about having a building and a curriculum; it’s about creating a community. I wanted parents in Ughelli to trust that their children would receive the best education possible. I wanted them to feel proud of where they sent their kids.
The Challenges Ahead
Now, let’s be real. The journey wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. I faced a mountain of challenges. To be with, securing funds was like trying to catch smoke with your bare hands. I reached out to family, friends, and even some local businesses. Some laughed, others were skeptical, but I kept pushing. I shared my vision passionately, and slowly, people began to see the light.
I found a small piece of land that was just waiting for a school to rise. It was a dusty plot, but to me, it held the promise of bright futures. I remember standing there, imagining classrooms filled with eager minds, laughter echoing in the halls, and teachers who genuinely cared. The excitement was palpable, but so was the fear. Would I be able to pull this off?
Building a Strong Foundation
With a little bit of money and a whole lot of determination, I began the process of building. I hired local workers and together, we transformed that dusty land into a space full of hope. Each brick laid was a step closer to my dream. I knew that a school needed more than just walls; it needed a soul.
Next came the curriculum. I wanted something that would not only align with the national standards but also reflect our culture and values. I spoke to educators, parents, and even some students. Listening to their needs was crucial. Education is a partnership, after all, and I wanted to make sure that every voice was heard. That’s when I decided on a well-rounded approach—balancing academics, arts, and sports.
Finding the Right Team
Then came the most important part: finding the right teachers. You can have the best facilities, but without passionate educators, it’s just a building. I went through dozens of interviews, seeking out those who shared my vision. I wanted teachers who would inspire, motivate, and challenge the students.
It wasn’t easy, but I managed to assemble a team that was as dedicated as I was. They understood the dream and were ready to roll up their sleeves. Together, we created a curriculum that was not just about rote learning but encouraged critical thinking and creativity.
The Grand Opening
Finally, the day arrived—the grand opening. I remember standing at the entrance of the school, looking at the beautifully painted walls and the excited faces of both parents and children. The air was filled with anticipation. I felt a mix of anxiety and joy. Would they love it? Would I live up to their expectations?
As parents walked in, I could see their faces light up. They were amazed at what we had created from scratch. The children ran to their classrooms, their laughter filling the air. It was a moment I’ll never forget. The first day confirmed that all the sleepless nights and hard work were worth it.
Building a Community
But I didn’t stop there. I wanted the school to be more than just a place for academics; I envisioned a community hub. We organized events that brought parents, teachers, and students together. From cultural festivals to science fairs, we fostered an environment where everyone felt involved.
Over time, we built a reputation. Parents started to talk, and word spread. “Have you heard about that new school in Ughelli?” became a common phrase. I’ll never forget the day a parent approached me, eyes gleaming with pride, and said, “My child is happy to go to school!” That was the ultimate reward.
Continuous Growth and Improvement
As the school grew, so did my understanding of education. I realized that feedback was crucial. I started regular meetings with parents and teachers. Their insights helped us evolve. We weren’t just a school; we were a learning community, always aiming to improve.
I also recognized the importance of technology in education. We introduced computers and online learning tools, ensuring our students were well-equipped for the future. In a world that is rapidly changing, I wanted them to be ready.
The Future Awaits
Looking back, it’s clear that starting this school was one of the best decisions of my life. It wasn’t just about building a physical space; it was about nurturing dreams, shaping futures, and creating a legacy. I often reflect on how far we’ve come and the impact we’re making in our community.
If you’re thinking about pursuing your own dream, whether it’s starting a school or something else, remember this: the road may be tough, but every step is worth it if you’re passionate about your vision. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, keep learning, and never lose sight of your goal.
What do you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!