Jan. Week 4: Tuesday morning was...routine...

First period went by relatively easy, even if the students were a bit off kilter after the holiday weekend. Starting school on a Tuesday always threw everyone off—students and teachers. Leah stepped outside to greet her second-period students—standing in the hallway as most teacher did because they were “highly encouraged” by admins to ensure the halls were policed during class changes. It really was a smart move—even if she didn’t do it all the time she did it most times. Starting a student’s class period with a welcome and a smile was a great way to get a class period started on a good note. Even amongst the busy whirl of students there was no mistaking the stately cadence of Principal Howard's approach. Leah braced herself. He didn't waste time on pleasantries.

"Miss Williams," he murmured, glancing only briefly at her face before letting his gaze drift, as it always did, downward. "Walk with me a moment, please."

She followed him, feigning casual indifference, but every muscle in her legs buzzed with anxiety. They waded into the slow-moving current of student traffic. Mr. Howard kept his voice low, all business as he addressed her over his shoulder: "I'd like to see you during your prep, if you don't mind." He threaded the request through clenched teeth, as if discussing a school policy violation. "My office. I look forward to…catching up."