Team8s and Counting

163. The Cost of Standing Up

After getting the call from the school, Coiny got into the car and headed over, a million thoughts racing through his head. The first being the mystery of how one of the kids had already gotten themself into trouble less than 5 hours into the new school year. And Dimey of all people? Coiny knew that Dimey was a good kid, so whatever had happened, it must have been important for him to get involved. As Coiny pulled into the school parking lot, he took a deep breath, trying to piece together what might've led to this situation.

Inside the school, the secretary directed him to Ms. Chapstick's office. He found Dimey sitting there, looking a little nervous but not overly scared. Coiny felt a mixture of relief and curiosity; Dimey didn't look hurt or upset—just waiting.

Dimey looked behind him, "Hi dad." He said softly.

Coiny sat down next to him, "Hey buddy." He then glanced over at Ms. Chapstick. "So, anyone gonna tell me what I'm doing here?"

Ms. Chapstick cleared her throat, glancing at her notes before speaking. "Mr. Copper, it seems Dimey got into a... physical altercation at recess today."

Coiny raised an eyebrow, looking at Dimey, who seemed to shrink a bit in his seat. "A physical altercation? Really?"

Dimey looked down at his hands, then back up at Coiny, his voice small but steady. "I punched a kid, Dad. But it was because he was bullying Capy and saying really mean stuff about her family."

Coiny jolted in his seat, not expecting to hear that. He took a deep breath, glancing from Dimey to Ms. Chapstick, trying to process what he'd just learned.

Ms. Chapstick continued, "According to the aides, the other student was making comments about Dimey's friend's family structure. Dimey and his cousin Bladey stepped in to defend her, which shows how much they cared about her. However, as you know, we have a strict policy on physical violence, no matter the reason."

Coiny nodded, "So, what's next?"

Ms. Chapstick sighed, "I'm afraid he's looking a a three day suspension

Coiny's stomach dropped. A three-day suspension was more serious than Coiny had expected, and he knew it would be hard for Dimey to face the consequences of his actions, even though he meant well.

Dimey tilted his head, "What's a suspension?"

Coiny glanced down at Dimey, trying to figure out the best way to explain it. "It means you can't go to school for the next three days, buddy. You'll have to stay home and keep up with your schoolwork there."

Dimey's eyes widened. "But... I didn't mean to get in trouble. I just wanted to help Capy."

Ms. Chapstick understood where he was coming from "I know, Dimey, and we can see that you were trying to do the right thing. But even when you're defending a friend, it's important to handle the situation in a way that doesn't escalate it into violence. You're a good kid, Dimey, and we know you were just trying to protect Capy. But punching someone, no matter the reason, crosses a line."

Dimey looked down at his lap; he knew that Ms. Chapstick was right. However, tears were now starting to form in his eyes, wishing that he could go back and handle things differently.

Ms. Chapstick continued to go over more details of the suspension, and Coiny listened and nodded along, while also wrapping his arm around Dimey, trying to not make him feel worse than he already did.

Ms. Chapstick glanced at Coiny. "I think that's all we need to go over today. If you need anything, don't hesitate to reach out."

Coiny stood up, gently guiding Dimey to his feet. "Thank you, Ms. Chapstick. We'll talk more at home." As the two were about to leave the office, he thought of one last question to ask Ms. Chapstick. "I'm assuming you're going to have a chat with this bully who made fun of my son's friend?"