They Said ‘You Don’t Understand Me’, So We Did Something About It. It’s not just about grades. It’s about who they’re becoming.
At Premiere Academy, we believe education is more than just academics. It’s about nurturing confidence, character, and connection. And in today’s world, nothing speaks louder than truly listening, especially to our teens.
On May 7, 2025, we hosted a transformative online session titled: “Understanding Adolescents: Bridging the Gap between Parents, Teachers and Teens.” Led by Dr. Ige Olukayode Stephen, our Head of Guidance and Counselling, it wasn’t just another webinar. It was a moment of pause, reflection, and purpose.
The Struggle: “You Don’t Understand Me.”
Today’s teenagers are navigating uncharted waters such as academic pressure, digital overload, identity questions, and peer influence. Yet their loudest cry is often silent:
“I just want someone to understand me.” Dr. Ige didn’t just share theories, he shared real, relatable stories.
Two Moments That Hit Home
1. A Girl Withdraws. A Teacher Listens.
When a once-cheerful 14-year-old suddenly shut down, her teacher leaned in, not away. The cause? Cyberbullying. But healing began the moment she was heard. Support from home and school made all the difference.
2. A Boy Googles Depression. A Father Panics.
In fear, a well-meaning dad reacts with punishment. But what his son needed wasn’t control, it was compassion. As Dr. Ige said: “Understanding begins not with reaction, but with reflection.”
What Sets Premiere Apart
At our school, we don’t just raise scholars. We raise emotionally grounded, future-ready young people. Here’s what we build every day:
Empowerment – Helping students express themselves with clarity and courage
Innovation – Integrating emotional intelligence and digital literacy into learning
Character – Fostering empathy, self-awareness, and resilience
Connection – Encouraging trust and open communication between school and home
Because listening isn’t a side skill—it’s a superpower.
Why This Matters to Every Parent
Your child may be getting good grades, but are they emotionally thriving?
This session reminded us all: parenting teens today takes more than love. It takes intention, patience, and teamwork between school and home.
“When teens feel seen, they become unstoppable.” – Dr. Ige
Key Takeaways You Can Use Today
Look beyond the behavior, ask what’s behind it
Use curiosity instead of criticism
Partner with teachers as allies, not just authority figures
Equip teens to name their feelings and needs
Create safe spaces where your child can speak and grow
The Premiere Promise
We’re not just preparing students for exams, we’re preparing them for life. That means raising thinkers, builders, and compassionate leaders who understand themselves and others. And we believe no parent should walk this journey alone.