Mr. Perez
I sit at my desk, enjoying the quiet of the classroom. I watch the clock, waiting for the day to end. The papers in front of me are worn. I think about Jack, who has had a hard time with history. I know he’s been trying hard, so I want to help him improve.
The bell rings, and students start packing up. Jack walks over to my desk, looking hopeful but anxious. His shoulders are slumped.
“Mr. Perez, can I talk to you for a minute?” Jack asks, his voice hesitant.
“Of course, Jack,” I reply, motioning for him to sit in the chair across from me. “What’s on your mind?”
Jack takes a deep breath, glancing around to make sure no one else is listening. “I’ve been really struggling with the history material, and I know I haven’t been doing well in class. Is there any way I can make up for it?”
I nod, understanding his frustration. “I’ve noticed you’ve been putting in extra effort. I think you deserve a chance to improve your grade.”
Jack’s eyes widen with a mix of relief and nervousness. “Really? What do I need to do?”
“I’m going to give you an extra credit assignment,” I explain. “You’ll need to write a report on a historical topic of your choice. It has to be thorough and well-researched.”
Jack’s shoulders relax slightly. “How long does it need to be?”
“Just a few pages,” I answer. “And you’ll need to present it to the class. But don’t worry, you can choose any topic that interests you.”
Jack’s face brightens. “That sounds fair. When do I have to turn it in?”
“You can present it anytime before the semester ends,” I say. “That gives you some flexibility. Just make sure you manage your time well.”
Jack thinks for a moment, then asks, “Can I get some feedback before I finish it? I want to make sure I’m on the right track.”
“Absolutely,” I reply. “Bring me a draft when you’re ready, and I’ll review it for you. That way, you can make any needed changes before the final submission.”
Jack looks relieved. “That helps a lot. Thanks for the chance.”
“You’re welcome,” I say with a smile. “I’m confident you’ll do a great job. If you need any help, just let me know.”
Jack stands up, looking thoughtful. “One more thing, Mr. Perez. How should I choose a topic?”
“Pick something that you’re interested in,” I suggest. “It will make the research and writing process more enjoyable. Plus, it might help you understand the subject better.”
Jack nods, clearly considering the advice. “Got it. I think I have an idea of what I want to do now. Thanks again!”
As Jack heads for the door, he pauses and turns back. “Oh, and Mr. Perez, if I have any more questions while I’m working on it, can I come see you during lunch?”
“Of course,” I reply. “I’m here to help. Just let me know if you need anything.”
Jack gives me a grateful smile. “I will. Thanks for being so supportive.”
I watch him leave, feeling a sense of pride. It’s clear Jack is taking the assignment seriously. I look around the classroom, noticing how quiet and empty it is now. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love teaching.
As I start organizing my papers, the classroom door opens and a few students walk by, chatting and laughing. I glance at the clock and see the day is winding down.
Just before Jack exits the building, he turns around and waves. “Hey, Mr. Perez, do you have any book recommendations for my report?”
I think for a moment. “You might want to check out the library’s section on [specific topic]. They have some great resources there. And if you need anything more specific, let me know.”
Jack nods enthusiastically. “Great, thanks! I’ll head there now.”
After Jack leaves, I stay to finish grading. I go through papers and jot down notes for the next lessons. The quiet classroom helps me concentrate.
When I’m done, I turn off the lights and pack up. Stepping into the cool evening air, I look back at the school. I wonder how Jack will handle the assignment. Will he find it engaging and do well, or will he have a hard time?
**
After third period, I go to the library to check on Jack’s progress. The library is peaceful, with the gentle rustle of pages and the faint scent of old books. I find Jack at a table in the back, surrounded by books and scattered notes.
I approach him carefully, not wanting to disturb his concentration. “Hey, Jack. Can I join you for a moment?” I ask, my voice soft.
Jack looks up from his pile of books, his face showing a mix of surprise and relief. “Oh, hi, Mr. Perez. Sure, have a seat.”
I pull out a chair and sit down across from him. The table is cluttered with history books and Jack’s handwritten notes. “How’s the research going?” I ask, glancing at the books.
Jack takes a deep breath and opens a large, dusty book. “It’s going okay. I’ve found some good information on the causes of the American Revolution, but there’s so much to sift through.”
I nod, looking at the book in his hands. “That’s a complex topic. It can be overwhelming. Have you thought about focusing on specific causes, like economic or political factors?”
Jack’s eyes light up with understanding. “I hadn’t thought about breaking it down like that. It might make it easier to organize everything.”
“Exactly,” I say, smiling. “Starting with one aspect, then moving to the next, helps you see how everything fits together. Do you have any particular focus in mind?”
Jack nods. “I was thinking about looking into how the British taxes affected the colonists. Does that sound good?”
“That’s a great focus,” I reply. “The taxation issue was a major factor. You could explore how it led to different events like the Boston Tea Party.”
Jack scribbles some notes, looking more confident. “Thanks for the tip. I was getting lost in all the details.”
“No problem,” I say. “If you need more help or have any questions, just let me know. I’m here to support you.”
Jack smiles gratefully. “I appreciate that, Mr. Perez. I’ll definitely reach out if I get stuck.”
I see Jack return to his research with fresh focus. He’s clearly working hard, and it’s reassuring to see him take the assignment seriously.
As I stand up to leave, I give Jack a final nod. “Good luck with the rest of your research. I’m looking forward to seeing your report.”
“Thanks!” Jack says enthusiastically. “I’ll keep you updated.”
I pause for a moment before heading out. “And remember, if you need any resources or additional guidance, just ask. I’m here to help.”
Jack looks up, smiling. “I will, Mr. Perez. Thanks for checking in.”
As I leave the library, I feel a sense of satisfaction. Jack’s dedication reminds me why I enjoy teaching. I step into the quiet hallway, with the sun setting outside. I’m hopeful about Jack’s project and his progress, and I believe he’ll do well.
YOU ARE READING
Ephemeral
General FictionStruggling in history class, Jack gets help from Mrs. Delgado, who shares her mother's harrowing Holocaust story. This profound connection helps Jack improve his grades and understanding of history. As he prepares to share his insights, he must conf...
