On this day, the cycle repeated. Diane was caught mocking a teacher mid-lesson, and by afternoon, Carol found herself in the principal’s office, pleading. “She’s had two expulsions already. Please—if you expel her again, no school will take her.” Her voice cracked with exhaustion, equal parts shame and fear.
The principal, old and weary, rubbed his temples. “You understand she leaves us little choice. Disruption cannot go unchecked.” Carol leaned forward, desperation bleeding into her tone. “Give her one more chance. Please. She’s not a bad kid. She just—needs someone to believe she can do better.”