Chapter 1056 Expectations of Promotion
"Indeed, during parent-teacher conferences, I always emphasize the importance of laying strong foundations in the first year. Encouraging consistent reading habits is key; it's not a matter of cramming at the last minute. However, those parents simply don't listen. They fail to supervise their children in completing tasks sincerely; once grades slip, they shift blame to the school and teachers. Schools are afraid to upset parents, thus they end up squeezing us teachers. Being a teacher nowadays is akin to being a grandchild—students mustn't be scolded, parents mustn't be offended, and school administrators are untouchable. We're caught in the middle," Audrey sighed and lamented.
"It's inevitable; we're teachers after all. The polite term is 'engineers of the soul,' but the harsh reality is that we're like kings ruling over children," Kimberly shook her head. "This is how it'll be for a lifetime. However, you're doing better than me. We both joined Sunset Valley High School almost the same year. You've already attained the intermediate title while I'm just a novice. As time progresses, the gap between us will only widen. Once you reach the advanced level, I might struggle even to attain the intermediate rank. It's a tale of contrasting fates."
"Kimberly, I've just been fortunate," Audrey heard Kimberly's acerbic tone and hastily explained, "I didn't expect to reach the intermediate level this year. When Mr. Carter informed me, it took me by surprise. Our competencies are quite similar, so I'm not sure why the school promoted me to the intermediate rank."
"Alright, no need to explain. I truly admire your achievement in reaching the intermediate level. You excel in both qualifications and abilities, not to mention publishing numerous papers. I'm no match for you," Kimberly snorted. "I just find it absurd that some individuals lacking in skills climb the leadership ladder. They seem to excel by plying men with flattery, dressing provocatively daily—showing cleavage and thighs. They're almost no different from call girls. It's no wonder Lola has taken an interest in her."
Audrey paused, then realized who Kimberly was referring to—Vanessa. During the previous academic term's promotion evaluation, only Vanessa and she had risen to the intermediate level among the younger teachers. It was inevitable that their promotions would stir up gossip. However, since attending a training session in the city alongside Vanessa, their relationship had mellowed. Audrey didn't wish to speak ill of Vanessa behind her back and simply remarked, "I doubt it, Mrs. Jones. Perhaps she's just a bit too casual at times."
"You're too naïve, always seeing others in a positive light. You'd probably even help count money if someone sold you," Kimberly sneered. "Vanessa is definitely not someone to be underestimated. She has a history with Quentin and is now frequently visiting Mr.Jones's office. She knows how to use her charms; a brief dalliance with a superior could yield great benefits. Meanwhile, we toil day in, day out preparing lessons, crafting teaching plans, grading assignments, and taking on various responsibilities. It hardly seems fair."
"If you find it unfair, you can always make a change," Audrey remarked to Kimberly, but inwardly sighed. School is often depicted as a sanctuary, but it harbors its own share of dirtiness—office politics, rivalry, and the pursuit of fame and fortune. Teachers may maintain a facade, avoiding confrontations unlike other workplaces, but if one chooses a simple life, shuns controversy, and focuses on teaching like Alissa, who swiftly attained the advanced title and became a backbone of the school, or behaves like Oliver, garnering favors.
"Fine, Audrey, you need not belittle me. I'm not that lowly," Kimberly, always sharp-tongued, shot Audrey a look. "I understand you don't wish to gossip about Vanessa; let your 'good person' image prevail. I simply can't stand idle chatter. Well, there's no point in discussing these matters. I'll go check on the other class."
After Kimberly departed, Audrey also left outside Room 57, pondering their conversation. She understood that her non-confrontational nature wasn't ideal, but change was hard to come by. Each person leads their unique life; why force things? Since life offers only one chance, why not live according to one's own desires? The opinions and thoughts of others aren't as crucial as they may seem.
Ring, ring, ring...
Rubbing his weary eyes, Kevin checked the time; the first evening study session had concluded, and he had just finished revising the subjects of Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry. It was clear he needed to enhance his efficiency.
Students trickled out of classrooms in twos and threes, heading to the restroom, chatting and playing in the corridors, or lounging at their desks, resting or indulging in snacks.
Observing Albert engrossed in his game with head bowed, Kevin shook his head; this individual seemed beyond redemption. Exiting the classroom, he noticed the crowded hallway and decided to head downstairs to the nearby playground for a moment of relaxation. Yet, as soon as he entered the grounds, he spotted two figures beneath a poplar tree not far away—Vanessa and Quentin.
Vanessa had a past involvement with Quentin, but later found him lacking. They had a falling out, and Kevin had played a role in that situation. Seeing the two together again, he wondered if old flames were reigniting. Creeping closer, he intended to eavesdrop on their conversation.
"Quentin, why did you summon me? Speak quickly; I need to get home to tend to the children," Vanessa impatiently remarked. She wore a cropped shirt revealing her midriff, paired with a denim skirt, highlighting her slender waist and fair, enticing legs under the lamplight.
"Vanessa, we go way back. Do old ties mean nothing to you?" Quentin chuckled, attempting to reach for Vanessa's waist. "It's been a fruitful summer break; you seem to have slimmed down—any chance to check if there's been a reduction in a certain area?"
Evading Quentin's touch, Vanessa's expression turned cold. "Quentin, show some respect. I have a husband. Speak business, and don't lay hands on me."
"Alright, Mrs. Jones, you're really turning over a new leaf," Quentin smirked. "I saw you visiting Oliver's office earlier. Working late, Mrs. Jones, probably reporting on your work. You're truly hardworking—teaching students during the day and leading a class for the principal in the night. I'm certain you'll secure the outstanding teacher position by year's end."
"Quentin, spare me your innuendos," Vanessa sneered. "So what if I slept with Oliver? What's it to you? If you're unhappy, why don't you become a principal as well? Then I can accompany you for a night's rest. How about that?"
"Vanessa, don't think latching onto Oliver's coattails makes you invincible," Quentin's expression darkened. "My uncle is the deputy director of the Education Bureau. Once he ascends to the directorship, a mere Sunset Valley High School principal won't be worth a dime. You'll be begging at my feet."
"Is that so? I recall you saying the same thing three years ago. Your uncle must be around 55 now. Do you think he still has a chance at promotion?" Vanessa disdainfully retorted. "Perhaps in a few years, Oliver might become the Education Bureau Director. I look forward to seeing who sheds tears then."
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