Chapter Four

Mrs. Nnaji felt a sudden wave of sadness. She hadn't expected the principal to utter such insulting words so easily. 'Sir, please... give her a little time. We still have one month, right?'

'Mrs. Nnaji, it's important to be aware that WAEC strongly advises against late registration. The deadlines set by the council for the registration of school candidates are non-negotiable. Late registration significantly complicates the preparation process. It is unfortunate that Peach Secondary School is experiencing this embarrassment for the first time, as our school has always been proactive in registering our students on time. However, if her parents are unable to afford the registration fees at the moment, it may be worth considering having her write the exam next year. There is no shame in doing so, as many students have taken the WASSCE multiple times in their pursuit of success...'

'Sir, I understand your point, but then...'

'Other form teachers have already submitted the continuous assessment score records of their respective classes, with the exception of SS3 class A under your guidance. I'm curious to understand the reason behind this delay. Is it because of the particular student who is facing financial difficulties? Regardless, it is important to prioritise the submission. Anyway, since the student in debt doesn't want to be part of this year, I advise that you exclude her. In fact, she should stop coming to school.'

'Everyone deserves a chance. I'm sure the council would also want to give every qualified Nigerian child an opportunity to sit for the examination... I beg you to do the same, sir. Just give her a chance. Just this once, please.'

'You have valid concerns, Mrs. Nnaji,' Mr. Johnson responded dismissively. 'But let's consider whether Chidera meets the qualifications to sit for the exam. Being qualified for the WAEC exam means being a registered student, not a student with outstanding debts, correct? Do you believe that ranking first in class automatically qualifies someone? The council and we, as individuals, prioritise financial eligibility over intellectual prowess. Intelligence takes a backseat.' Pausing for a moment, he continued, 'As her form teacher, why not encourage Chidera to drop out? After all, there is no law stating that success in life is solely dependent on sitting for the WASSCE. She could pursue a trade and, once she has saved enough money, she could then register and sit for her WASSCE. Numerous individuals have pursued the WASSCE after getting married and having children, and they have found happiness in their choices, haven't they?'

Resolute in her determination, Mrs. Nnaji decided to reframe the conversation and emphasise the potential Dera possessed. She spoke passionately, highlighting Dera's academic achievements, dedication, and the positive impact she had on her peers.

Mr. Johnson looked at Mrs. Nnaji for a moment and reluctantly said, 'Okay, but I will give her only two weeks to pay everything she owes our school... everything, including the late registration fees. Of course, she will have to cover the cost of it.' He then extended his hand, taking the files containing the names of the registered Class A students from Mrs. Nnaji. 'You may leave now.'

'Thank you, sir.' With that, Mrs. Nnaji turned around and headed towards the door. To her surprise, she saw Dera standing there, looking confused with teary eyes.

'Ma'am, do I still have hope, or am I going to be kicked out of the school?' Dera asked anxiously. She had wanted to finish her homework before the morning assembly, but she couldn't concentrate knowing her fate was being decided in Mr. Johnson's office. While Mrs. Nnaji hadn't explicitly mentioned anything about the principal enquiring about students who hadn't registered for the WASSCE, Dera couldn't shake the feeling that her situation was being deliberated upon. The expression on Mrs. Nnaji's face spoke volumes, confirming Dera's suspicion that she was the subject of intense discussion in the office.

'Mr. Johnson promised to give you two weeks to pay everything you owe.'

'All right, Ma'am. I give you my word that my parents will strive to meet your expectations.'

'Dera, you and your family have consistently exceeded my expectations. You don't need to explain further. It's not your fault in any way. I genuinely believe everything will turn out well.' Mrs. Nnaji's voice was filled with a glimmer of hope.

Just then, the bell rang for the morning assembly, and the students began filing into the school hall for their prayers and hymns. Mr. Johnson flipped through the file, then left it on his desk, grabbed his diary, and headed for the school hall.

As was customary, the principal made some announcements after the prayers. So, Mr. Johnson walked to the podium and shared his quote for the day before making the announcements.

Dera hoped that as Mrs. Nnaji pleaded with the principal on her behalf, he wouldn't mention her non-payment of school fees and WASSCE registration. But she was wrong.

There was an announcement about the school sponsoring some students in an upcoming mathematics competition. Only the top students from each class would be allowed to participate, and three best students would represent the school in Lagos State. There was also a complaint about students in charge of the school garden not taking care of the plants, something a good gardener wouldn't allow to happen. What hope was there for a child who couldn't water the plants and take care of them? Just as one takes care of their body every day, a good gardener tends to the garden, ensuring its flourishing by watering, weeding, and nurturing. Moreover, there were reports of students littering the classrooms.