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JULY 6 / MONDAY MORNING
“You wanted to see me, Mrs. Logan?” I ask as I walk into the office after first period.
She motions for me to sit. I obey. “I’ve spoken with the security officers, your teacher, and some other students. It does seem you were attacked and defending yourself, but still there are consequences. After speaking with Mr. Richards and Mr. Torrez, we’ve decided that your behavior doesn’t seem conducive to a classroom setting, so you’ll finish summer school in this office. Each morning bring your books and you’ll do all your assignments and tests. You’ve missed so much of the term, this is the only way you’ll get caught up and not fall further behind.”
“Thank you,” I whisper.
“Well, consider this to be like basic training. In the next three weeks, you’ll work as hard as you’ve ever worked. If you do the work, then you’ll be able to start your senior year in the fall.”
“I want that very much.”
“I also suggest for those subjects in which you’re struggling, you find a tutor,” she says. She reaches onto her desk and hands me a sheet of paper with a list of names and numbers. They’re in alphabetical order by first name so Miguel’s name is right in the middle. “One last thing.”
I nod as I pretend to record Miguel’s number even though it’s tattooed on my brain.
“I’ve gone to them before,” I confess. “I didn’t really think they helped.”
“Mr. Richards said he thought you could train to facilitate. He believes you’re a leader.”
“That’s a lot to do. I’d better hurry up,” I say. “I’d better do double time.”
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