Wells’s Professional Challenge

This thread traces Ed Wells’s suspicion of Carol Pitt and the gradual recognition that her student-centered commitments are genuine.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Suspicion at School

Suspicion at School An awkward beginning Wells encounters Ms. Pitt after she spills coffee on him and worries aloud that the mishap may bode poorly for her interview. His manner is formal and guarded. A judgment forming As the day continues, he sees behavior he considers out of character and questions whether she is fit to lead the English department. Their professional disagreement shapes how he interprets each new incident.

A Confounding Conversation

A Confounding Conversation A strange confrontation In Ms. Pitt’s body, Hadley speaks to Wells about homework, grades, and the pressure to enter a top college. He hears an emotional outburst that makes little sense in the context of an adult teacher. Concern and distrust Wells sends her home to rest and suggests rescheduling the interview. His concern is mixed with professional skepticism, and he does not know that the words come from a student inhabiting her teacher’s body.

Recognition at the Dance

Recognition at the Dance The decision explained Wells tells Carol that the board viewed her departure to help a student as proof of commitment. What he had initially treated as instability has become a demonstration of her priorities. Respect without full agreement He congratulates her on the chair appointment, acknowledging her devotion despite their disagreement over teaching methods. Their professional relationship shifts toward recognition rather than simple opposition.

After Ms. Pitt spills her drink that morning

After the self-esteem group meeting

Late evening during the dance