Kintropy In Action

Just a follow-on from Janette's entry.

The principal explained that Gabriel had, along with five other boys, gotten a referral from the bus driver.  "These always come in a set," he said ruefully.

As we connected the dots, we learned that Gabriel had been teased on the bus.  He stood up, crying, to collect his things which had been scattered about.  Of course, he should have been seated for safety reasons, but kind of got caught in the Shotgun of Discipline, I think.

Our standing rule is a principal's office visit is an automatic grounding, and we followed through, explaining the safety concern (a bit half-heartedly on my part).  Gabriel has made the Walk of Shame three times this year.  Of those three, I only agree with one (hijinks in the bathroom, standing on sinks on a dare).  The other two seemed like minor infractions & explainable things, but we did our best to be consistent in working with the school to address the underlying idea (e.g. don't disrupt class, be safe on the bus).

But don't worry.  Mr. G is not scarred by this experience.

"Dad, know what?  My friend T. has two referrals.  I have three.  If he gets one more, he'll have the same as me!"

"Gabriel, this isn't a contest!"

"I know.  Just saying...."

Anyone betting on a fourth trip to the principal's office?

Of course, Hannah will have some shoes to fill, but she strikes me as more the rebellious type.  I imagine she'll have no problems matching Gabriel visit-for-visit when the time comes :-).

-- Dad