You know why you're here, don't you?
You've been slacking off in class and your grades are dismal. Do you even care about your education?
I do sir. I really do. But it’s just hard for me to focus on school when my home life is so… complicated. My dad abuses me at home, and it’s made me have trouble concentrating at school.
Is that so? And you thought it was appropriate to bring your personal problems into my classroom?
No sir! But I didn’t know how else to explain my constant absences and lack of focus. I wasn’t trying to inconvenience anyone or make my problems your problem.
Look, I understand that you're going through a tough time. But you need to find a way to deal with it without letting it interfere with your education.
That’s easier said than done sir. It’s not easy to just ‘deal with it’. When someone hurts you physically or mentally, sometimes it’s hard to focus on anything else. Do you know what it’s like to live with that kind of fear every day? When even the people who are supposed to love you and protect you are the ones causing you harm?
sighs Look, I may not understand exactly what you're going through, but I can see that it's causing you significant distress.
my voice breaks Thank you sir. I didn’t think you would understand. Most teachers wouldn’t. They just tell us to ‘toughen up’ and ‘focus on school’, but they don’t understand what it’s like to constantly live in fear of someone you love. They don’t understand that sometimes you can’t just ‘focus on school’.
I understand that it's not easy for you, and I can't fully comprehend the pain you're going through. But I want you to know that I'm here for you.
Really? I look up, surprised
Yes, really. From now on, I'll make sure you have someone to talk to and support you. We'll figure this out together. extends a hand to comfort Fleming
I lean forward, accepting his comforting hand. Thank you sir.
gently squeezes Fleming's hand You're not alone in this, Fleming. I promise to do everything I can to help you through this difficult time.
I smile weakly Thank you sir. I really needed to hear that.
Alright, here's what we're going to do. First, we'll schedule a meeting with the school counselor to discuss your options for seeking help outside of school.
Ok. And inside of school?
Inside the school, we can arrange for you to have regular check-ins with me.
What if I need help outside of school hours?
If you need help outside of school hours, I'll be available to meet with you on weekends or after school.
Thank you sir. That means a lot to me. Do you think the other teachers will be willing to work with us too?
leans forward, placing a hand on Fleming's shoulder Don't worry, I'll make sure they understand the importance of supporting you.
Will you go with me to talk to them? Just for support?
Of course, I'll be there with you every step of the way. I won't let you face this alone.
I smile softly Thank you sir. That means a lot to me.
Let's start by scheduling a meeting with the school counselor for tomorrow after school.
Okay sir. After school works for me.
Great. I'll contact the school counselor right away to set up the meeting.
The next day, during lunch break, I walk over to where Aizawa is sitting and wait for him to finish
stands up and walks over to Fleming Ready for the meeting?
Yeah, I’m ready. I hold my stomach I hope she has some good advice.
places a reassuring hand on Fleming's back Don't worry, I'm sure the counselor will have some valuable insights to help you. Just take deep breaths and remember that you're not alone in this.
Let's head to the counselor's office now. Remember, we're in this together, and I'll be right by your side every step of the way.
leads Fleming to the school counselor's office Here we are. Take a deep breath and remember, no matter what happens, I won't leave your side.
knocks on the counselor's office door Excuse me, Counselor Johnson? I've brought Fleming here for our scheduled meeting. Is she available? Counselor Johnson: Oh, yes, come on in. Have a seat.
looks at Aizawa and then at the counselor Hello.
nods at the counselor Thank you for taking the time to see us today. We appreciate it. Counselor Johnson: Of course, Mr. Aizawa. I'm here to help. So, what brings you two here today?
Well, ever since my dad found out I had a crush on a boy he started to get abusive again. So I told my teachers, including Aizawa, and he recommended me to talk to you.
sits down beside Fleming, offering a reassuring smile I'm glad you reached out for help. It takes a lot of courage to do so.
What should we call you? Aizawa-Shinoda?
Just call me Aizawa, please. We're here to discuss your concerns and find a solution, so formalities can wait. Now, let's focus on addressing the issues you're facing. pauses, deep in thought Have you tried talking to anyone else about this? Any other teachers or support staff?
Only my math teacher and my English teacher. And you.
nods, absorbing the information Alright, it's good that you've already reached out to some teachers.
Should I talk to a therapist outside of school?
pauses for a moment, considering the question While a therapist outside of school can certainly provide valuable guidance, I believe it's important for you to have support within your school community as well.