Page 90 of Pretty Relentless

“This doesn’t surprise me. She’s a terrible teacher. My son almost didn’t pass fifth grade because of her. She needs to be fired.” Reading those words aloud is like a knife to the chest. It burns and aches in the worst way.

I recognize the name attached to the comment, and honestly, it’s not surprising. I had her son in class two years ago, and he was a huge struggle from day one. He didn’t want to be there, created drama amongst his classmates, and refused to do the work. I tried everything to engage him and help him learn. His mother enabled him, telling me it was my job to get him to do the work, and she gave no encouragement, no help from home. So when he nearly didn’t pass the grade, of course, it was my fault.

Sighing, I click out of the picture and pull up my contacts. I need to call the superintendent, even though I don’t want to. It’s after six, and I hate bothering him at home. But I feel this can’t wait. Things like this will only continue to grow and fester until they erupt with toxicity.

Tapping on Mr. Jones’s name, I listen while the call connects and rings. “Hello?”

“Hi, Mr. Jones, this is Ava Rutledge. I apologize for calling you at home in the evening like this,” I say.

“It’s no problem. What can I do for you?” he asks.

“Well, I, uh, I’m not sure how to say this, but I’m having an issue you need to be aware of.”

“Go on.”

I explain the situation with the photos and give him a rundown on the comments I was able to see. He doesn’t say anything at first, but eventually breaks the silence. “Well, I hate that your name is being dragged through the mud on social media. I’ll give Dana a call and discuss the matter with her.”

Dana is Principal Dunn, who’s in her second year at the position. “I was planning to call her after I spoke to you.”

“You’re welcome to, but I’ll still do it. As you know, matters pertaining to employment and discipline also are brought to the board’s attention.”

My throat goes dry. “I know.”

“I’m not saying there’s any disciplinary matters here, Ava. Frankly, you’re entitled to a personal life. I’ve known you for several years, and you’re a fair, competent educator and employee.”

“Thank you, sir.”

“But this is also a small town, and yes, the people here have a way of making your business their own. If it weren’t for the issue you had a handful of years back, this wouldn’t even be discussed.”

“I know, and I get it.”

“You’re welcome to take tomorrow and Wednesday off. We have a board meeting Wednesday, and with that, an executive session to discuss any employee matters. If I know the board, they’ll want to discuss the accusations against you.”

It’s hard to swallow over the lump of emotion lodged in my throat. “Could I…Is there a chance I’ll be fired, sir?”

“I wouldn’t think so.”

His reply doesn’t exactly soothe the worry and ache in my chest. “I’m not sure about taking the days off. I don’t want it to appear I’m hiding.”

“I understand that, and only you can make the decision. But you have the time saved up, and if you need to take a couple days to calm down, I’d understand. Dana will approve it, I’ll make sure. If you don’t take them off, be prepared for questions and probably some comments. Good and bad. You know this town as well as I do, and when drama arises, everyone has an opinion to state, and they will state it.”

I nod in understanding, even though he can’t see it. “Thank you, sir. I may go ahead and take a few days off.”

“I’ll let Dana know, and she can arrange for a substitute. Keep her posted if you want to take more than just the next day or two.”

“I will, sir. Thank you for taking my call.”

“It’s no problem.” He pauses before adding, “You’re an amazing educator, Ava. I know you’ve had your fair share of issues over the years, but our district is very lucky to have you. If asked, I pledge my support to you. You’re allowed a personal life, and I’m certain there will be no findings of misdoings where your student is concerned.”

“There won’t be. Annabelle Pierson is a bright student. The grades she’s received have been earned, not given becauseI was seeing her father. You could ask Mr. Parmelee,” I state, referring to the fourth-grade teacher.

“I’m sure it won’t come to that, but I’ll take it under advisement.”

After a few seconds, I ask, “Should I plan to attend the board meeting on Wednesday?”

“You’re more than welcome to, as you are with any public meeting. There’s a portion on the agenda for public comments, and if you’d want to speak to the board, that would be the time.”

Ugh, the thought of getting up in front of the board and the community members who attend is enough to cause me to break out in hives. Give me a classroom full of kids, and I’m fine, but there’s something about speaking in public like that, especially to defend myself, that makes me want to crawl into a hole and hide.

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