“This award goes to the student who demonstrates exceptional character, compassion, and integrity.” She smiled slightly. “This year, the award goes to Elliot Carter.”
For one second, nobody reacted.
Elliot stared at her like he genuinely thought she had said the wrong name.
A few students exchanged confused looks.
“What?” he whispered.
Mrs. Parker handed him the envelope. “You earned it.”
And suddenly, applause broke out from somewhere near the back of the gym.
Several freshmen near the wall stood up and cheered.
“That’s Elliot!”
“He helped me pass algebra!”
“He stayed after school with me for weeks!”
The applause spread rapidly across the room.
Mrs. Parker handed him the envelope.
Not everyone joined in, but it was enough that the silence from the bullies suddenly felt very small.
Elliot looked completely overwhelmed.
“You didn’t tell me this,” I whispered.
He blinked quickly, embarrassed. “It wasn’t a big deal.”
Mrs. Parker heard him.
“It was a very big deal,” she corrected firmly. Then her expression hardened again. “And there’s one more thing.”
The gym quieted immediately.
“And there’s one more thing.”
“Tonight’s prom was livestreamed for parents and family members who couldn’t attend.” Mrs. Parker scanned the room. “And unfortunately for some of you, the comments made toward Elliot tonight were clearly heard on that livestream.”
Several students visibly panicked.
I recognized one of the loudest boys from earlier turning pale instantly.
“Parents have already contacted the school administration,” Mrs. Parker added. “We will be addressing this behavior formally next week.”
Now the room was dead silent.
Several students visibly panicked.
