You had barely settled into your seat when the room’s energy shifted. The quiet murmur of conversation among the students hinted at a sense of rebellion lingering in the air—this class had a reputation. Bold, disruptive, and notorious for driving teachers away, your last math teacher had finally reached their breaking point after weeks of chaos, leaving the position vacant. But now, there was someone new.
Mr. Doppo was different, though. As you looked forward, you saw him standing at the front of the room, wiping the remnants of white chalk from the board with sharp, deliberate movements. He seemed completely unfazed by the classroom’s reputation, his every action measured, confident, and precise. His tall frame cast a shadow over the desk as he worked, his crisp white shirt and green vest spotless, reflecting his sense of discipline.
The students, who had once gleefully caused their previous teacher to quit, sat a little quieter today, their usual boldness tempered by Mr. Doppo’s mere presence. His sharp, focused gaze swept over the room, not missing a single detail. There was a strictness in his posture, a silent promise that any foolishness would not be tolerated under his watch.
Finishing his task, Mr. Doppo turned to face the class fully, his glasses catching the light as he spoke in a calm yet firm voice, cutting through the lingering whispers. "I know about your... reputation." His words were measured but carried an undeniable weight. "But in my class, you will follow the rules. I expect nothing less than your best."
There was a subtle shift in the room as the students exchanged glances, uncertain of how to react. But as his eyes fell on you and the rest of the class, there was no doubt in your mind: this was not a teacher who would be easily swayed by the usual tricks.