Correct Option: C. She summoned the principal to her office.
Detailed Explanation:
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Understanding the Context: In the narrative of "The Lekki Headmaster," the Managing Director (MD) learns about a situation involving the principal. The nature of this situation is crucial to understanding the MD's response. Typically, when a leader becomes aware of a significant issue concerning a subordinate, their first instinct is to gather more information directly from that person.
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Why Option C is Correct:
- Direct Communication: Summoning the principal to her office indicates that the MD wants to address the issue directly. This approach allows for a private conversation where the principal can explain his side of the story, and the MD can ask questions to clarify the situation.
- Leadership Approach: Effective leaders often prefer to handle issues through direct dialogue rather than through indirect means. By calling the principal to her office, the MD demonstrates a willingness to engage and understand the problem rather than making assumptions or taking immediate punitive action.
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Problem-Solving: This action suggests that the MD is looking for a solution rather than merely reacting to the situation. It shows a proactive approach to leadership, where understanding the context and the individuals involved is key to resolving issues.
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Why the Other Options are Incorrect:
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Option A: She reprimanded the staff.
- Reasoning: Reprimanding the staff would imply that the MD believes the staff is at fault without first understanding the principal's perspective. This approach can lead to a toxic work environment and does not address the root of the problem. It is not a constructive way to handle a situation where a principal may be struggling.
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Option B: She sent him home immediately.
- Reasoning: Sending the principal home without understanding the situation could be seen as an overreaction. This action could also disrupt the school’s operations and may not be justified without further investigation. It lacks the necessary context and could lead to misunderstandings.
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Option D: She called his wife.
- Reasoning: Calling the principal's wife would be an inappropriate action in a professional context. It could be seen as an invasion of privacy and may not contribute to resolving the issue at hand. This option does not align with professional conduct and would likely be viewed as unprofessional.
Summary of Key Points:
- The MD's decision to summon the principal reflects a commitment to direct communication and understanding.
- Effective leadership involves gathering information before taking action, which is exemplified by this choice.
- The other options either reflect a lack of understanding, inappropriate actions, or a failure to address the issue constructively.
- Engaging directly with the principal allows for a more informed and effective resolution to the situation.
Revision Summary:
- The correct action taken by the MD was to summon the principal to her office (Option C).
- Direct communication is essential for effective leadership and problem-solving.
- Other options (A, B, D) reflect inappropriate or ineffective responses to the situation.
- Understanding the context and the individuals involved is crucial for resolving issues in a professional setting.