I headed out from the classroom to the cafeteria for lunch. As I sepped inside, I took in the entire cafeteria.
The cafeteria was spacious, with seating for every grade at the same time. Alone one wall, multiple food stations, each offering a variety of menu options.
Just as I was glancing at the menu, ready to place my order, I heard someone call my name.
I turned toward the voice and saw Emilia waving at me.
After ordering the special of the day- a hot meal combo, and collecting my tray., I hesitated for a moment, unsure where to sit. But Emilia quickly came over and pulled me toward her table.
I set my tray down and began eating, though my meal was soon interrupted by her constant chatter.
She excitedly recounted how her morning classes had gone. From her conversation, I learned that her homeroom advisor was Mr. Martin Harris, who also taught Mathematics. After homeroom and Math, the remaining two periods had been spent on introductions, just like in my class.
Once she finished her lunch, Emilia waved me off with a quick, "See you in the in Spanish class," before leaving the cafeteria.
I finished the rest of my meal alone, reflecting on the uneventful morning classes.
At 12:50, I returned to my classroom, where everyone was already gathered. As Ms. William had instructed earlier during homeroom, we were to choose a Clss Representative.
Three students- Caleb Thompson, Lucy Barnes, and Tristan Young, have volunteered for the role. So the class decided to choose through a vote.
Each volunteer gave a short one-minute speech.
Caleb Thompson spoke first: "I promise to listen to everyone's ideas and make sure our class's voice is heard. I'll do my best to organize events and keep our classroom welcoming."
Lucy Barnes followed, smiling confidently: "Hi everyone! I love planning and helping others. I want to make our class fair, supportive, and fun. If you choose me, I'll make sure everyone has a voice."
Finally, Tristan Young spoke, slightly nervous but sincere: "I may be quiet, but I care a lot. I want to help everyone feel included and create a place where everyone can succeed together."
A piece of paper was then handed to the remaining thirty-seven students. After a minute, the papers were collected and flipped over.
Out of thirty-seven votes, Lucy Barnes won with thirteen votes, Caleb came second with nine, Tristan Young followed with seven, and eight papers were left blank.
And just like that, Lucy Barnes chosen as our Class Representative, and Caleb Thompson serving as Vice Representative.
With that settled, the ten-minute passing time ended, amd the fifth period teacher walked into the room to begin class.