Lessons in Leadership: What Lean On Me Teaches About Resilience and Community

‘Lean on Me’ film cover.

“There’s only one boss in this place, and that’s me, the HNIC (The Head Nigga

In Charge) are some of the show-stopping words spoken by the late,

uncompromising, and controversial high school principal Joe Clark, who was

tasked with transforming Eastside High School in Paterson, New Jersey. The 1989

film Lean on Me is based on an incredible true story and showcases the

overarching themes of perseverance, empathy, and the power of unity in

overcoming systemic obstacles that leave so many feeling hopeless or lost.

The movie follows the strong-willed Clark, faced with a school riddled with

violence, drugs, and academic failure. Clark implements extreme disciplinary

measures, often clashing with teachers, parents, and the school board. His

approach, though harsh, yields results, showing that leadership and strong

messaging can transform an institution. The film is inspiring because it highlights

the power of effective communication and storytelling—both important public

relations (PR) aspects. Clark’s leadership style, use of PR tactics, and the film’s

overarching themes offer important lessons in crafting communication strategies

that effectively engage an intended audience.

Clark understands that perception shapes reality. He uses clear messaging

and bold actions to change Eastside High’s reputation. For example, his

requirement that students sing the school anthem daily reinforces the brand,

similar to how PR professionals use slogans and mission statements to solidify an

organization’s identity. By instilling school pride, he shifts the students’ self-

Perception, an essential PR lesson: effective messaging can inspire behavioral

change.

In the film, Clark is constantly in crisis management mode. He faces

opposition from the school board, parents, and even his faculty. His strategy is

often reactive rather than proactive; instead of building relationships with the

school board, he aggressively defends his position. PR tactics suggest that Clark

should have been more amenable to managing public perception and fostering

relationships with parents and the board to avoid resistance. However, his

unorthodox methods, despite creating a negative public image, eventually

lead to his imprisonment. Ironically, these methods become the defining strength

of his leadership and why he is ultimately beloved.

Despite Clark’s initial success using authoritarian leadership, which alienates

teachers, staff, parents, and students, he only manages to ensure the complete

reformation of Eastside High when he adopts a more collaborative approach with

those who initially resisted his authority. This highlights a critical PR lesson:

Communication must be two-way. Brands and leaders must listen to their

audiences, not just dictate messages. For example, a company or leader launching

a controversial initiative must involve others early to address concerns and gain

trust—something Clark neglects to do.

Clark’s approach delivers results—crime rates drop, student morale improves,

and academic performance rises. However, his methods also create conflict,

demonstrating the fine line between authoritative leadership and alienation.

Clark’s leadership style underscores the importance of clear, persuasive

messaging in PR writing.

A particularly poignant scene occurs when Clark is called

into an emergency parents’ meeting after expelling the 300 students he deems

“rotten apples.” Given the opportunity to defend his actions, he uses emotive

language and strong imagery that resonates with his audience’s beliefs. He

understands his audience and speaks to them in a way that is both clear and

incredibly effective. His success with students proves that compelling narratives

and strong leadership can shift public attitudes. PR writing should similarly focus

on storytelling that inspires action and builds loyalty.

Lean on Me is an inspiring film that showcases the power of leadership,

storytelling, and strategic communication. Joe Clark’s approach offers valuable

lessons for PR—his ability to shift perception and create immediate change

demonstrates effective crisis communication. The film reminds us that strong

narratives can inspire transformation in PR, but true success comes from balancing

authority with collaboration. In the words of Joe Clark, “Whether we sink or swim,

whether we rise or fall, WE MEET OUR FATE TOGETHER!”