rule the school

verb2

1. •
   (of one or a group of students) To socially dominate a school's student population, or a major part of it (such as the girls or the boys).

   • But as Shelley was by far the cleverest of the three head boys who were there, he ruled the school. — 1847
2. •
   To substantially control a school administratively, financially, or in terms of its curriculum.

   • After Page, Dr. E. Goodenough ruled the school from 1819 to 1828. On his retirement he obtained the deanery of Wells ... — 1884