When the Principal Lost Her MindChapter 3

I recounted the entire incident to Dean Thompson. “Principal Vanderberg, because my parents couldn’t come to school for clean-up, called them fugitives and made the whole class aware. He also threw my assignments in the trash, saying he wouldn’t accept my work anymore, wouldn’t give me test papers. I want the Dean to judge this fairly.” Dean Thompson listened to my words, then remained silent for a moment. “Lily, dear,” his voice was serious. “I’ve heard what you said. I know Principal Vanderberg; he’s a bit hot-headed, but his intentions are good.” A kindly smile spread across his face. “How about this, in a little while, I’ll use the school intercom to speak on your behalf, and I’ll explain your parents’ situation to everyone, so the teachers and students don’t misunderstand. How does that sound?” My eyes welled up. “Thank you, Dean Thompson! Thank you!” “Go on, go on,” he waved his hand. I bowed deeply to him and left the office.

Standing in the corridor, I let out a deep sigh of relief. The intercom would ring soon. Once this was resolved, I could go back to class and study like before. I stood outside the classroom, where Principal Vanderberg was teaching. The intercom crackled to life. I immediately stood up straight. “Attention all faculty and students.” Dean Thompson’s voice came through the speaker. “Here is an announcement.” I took a deep breath. “Regarding the disciplinary action against junior student Lily Adams.” “Upon investigation, it was found that the student provided false guardian information, defied her principal’s authority, and refused to cooperate with class duties. After multiple attempts by the principal to educate her, she showed no remorse, and today, during a break, she left class without permission and disrupted the teaching order. Her actions severely violate school rules and regulations, creating a negative impact.” “After deliberation by the grade committee, it has been decided to place student Lily Adams on school probation. All students are advised to take this as a warning, and respect their teachers. End of announcement.” I felt as if struck by lightning, my mind completely blank. Principal Vanderberg gave me a mocking smile from inside the classroom.

I turned and ran, kicking open the Dean of Student Affairs’ office door. Dean Thompson was drinking tea. He frowned and shouted. “What’s wrong with you? Don’t you know to knock before entering?” “Why did you lie to me?” I gasped, my voice trembling. “Didn’t you promise to help me? Why did the announcement say I was being disciplined?” He stood up, enraged. “Lily Adams, let me tell you, don’t make trouble here. Your disciplinary action is final!” Principal Vanderberg stomped in. Her eyes were spitting fire. “Oh, Lily Adams, you dare to come looking for the Dean!” She took a few quick steps, and without a word, slapped me. My face burned, and I stumbled sideways. “You little brat!” Principal Vanderberg pointed at my nose and yelled, “Even if you go to the Headmaster, it won’t matter! I run this class! I’m telling you, you messed with the wrong person today!” “Cousin, calm down,” Dean Thompson said from the side. I clutched my face, staring at them in disbelief. No wonder Principal Vanderberg was so arrogant; Dean Thompson was backing her up. My phone vibrated. A message from my mother: [Daughter, we’ll be at your school in ten minutes.]

Principal Vanderberg’s face darkened. She stepped forward and roughly knocked my phone out of my hand. “Still trying to call for help? Dream on! I’ll teach you a good lesson for your fugitive parents right now!” My fists clenched. All the blood rushed to my head, the pain on my cheek, the heat in my eyes, all mixed together into something indescribable. But my parents were arriving soon. Then, let’s see how arrogant she could be! I scoffed. “Mr. Vanderberg, are you really sure you want to do this?”