Follow with heart

After a semester of teaching, Wan Chunyan is now full of passion and confidence.

The tension, frustration, and worry I felt a year ago are gone.

In the principal's words, Xiao Wan now walks with a swagger.

Wan Chunyan knew in her heart that all of this was caused by that student named Zhao Changling.

But Wan Chunyan was a simple-minded person, and she wouldn't have thought about the abnormal things that had happened to Zhao Changling.

She simply believed that Zhao Changling was a naturally intelligent academic genius who hadn't studied actively in elementary school because he was just playful.

When he entered middle school, his learning genes suddenly awakened, which caused a huge gap in his grades between elementary and middle school.

Wan Chunyan and Zhao Changling are now very close, and they address each other as brother and sister.

This is all thanks to her husband Zhao Gang's good interpersonal skills. During the Chinese New Year, Zhao Gang took her to pay New Year's respects to Zhao Changling's parents.

We were all children of employees in the same unit. Before our parents moved to Nanjing, they all lived in the same neighborhood in the southwest, so it was very convenient for them to visit each other.

After moving to Jinling, although we didn't live very far away, we lived in apartment buildings.

Unlike in the past when it was easy to visit each other in single-story houses, people who were not close or did not have much contact at work gradually stopped interacting.

When the couple came to visit, they chatted with their parents about the past, and many old topics were brought up again.

Speaking of which, Zhao Changling's father and Wan Chunyan's father were coworkers. When he was an apprentice, Zhao Changling's father would follow behind Wan Chunyan's father and call him "Big Brother".

This made them even closer.

Zhao Changling's father started calling Zhao Gang "nephew," and Zhao Gang started calling Zhao Changling "brother Zhao."

Zhao Changling felt that calling Zhao Gang "brother" sounded a bit awkward, so he called Wan Chunyan "sister" and Zhao Gang "brother-in-law".

Over time, the two families grew closer, and Zhao Gang and his wife began to regard Zhao Changling as their own younger brother.

Wan Chunyan is now riding high on her success; she's practically floating on air.

She was very happy, but she also noticed that Xu Junjie's complexion had been quite bad lately.

She was rather slow-witted and didn't understand the reason behind Xu Junjie's gloomy expression.

She naively thought that she was newly married and living a sweet life, which provoked Xu Junjie.

Because of this, she hasn't dared to rush into having a baby recently and has been using contraception.

Moreover, with Zhao Changling now appearing, Wan Chunyan is even less willing to have a child.

If she wants to have a baby now, she'll have to take leave, and someone else will have to take over as the homeroom teacher.

Given Zhao Changling's current form, getting into a top high school is a piece of cake; she's not going to let anyone else have this opportunity.

Wan Chunyan's mind is now completely focused on teaching; she is completely unaware of any subtle actions or misbehaviors others may be making.

This is really difficult for her; let alone discovering it, she can't even understand it.

If anyone is to blame, it's Wan Chunyan for being too naive.

If she had even the slightest ulterior motive and told her husband about what happened at school, Zhao Gang would definitely have noticed something amiss.

Despite having a lower educational background than Wan Chunyan, Zhao Gang is far superior to her in terms of interpersonal skills and judgment.

......

Xu Junjie did make some subtle moves, but they were the kind that were done quietly and imperceptibly.

Xu Junjie's little trick was to apply to the principal.

We requested that the principal and teachers from each subject attend classes in the three classes of the second year of junior high school.

Attending lectures was something that happened occasionally in the past.

The main reason is that the new teachers need to learn from others because they lack experience. They listen to lectures by teachers who are good at teaching and learn from their experience.

The principal would sometimes attend classes, mostly on a whim or to give new teachers some guidance.

However, this time the application for attending classes is different. Xu Junjie's philosophy is that teachers from different subjects can learn from each other's strengths and make up for each other's weaknesses.

This is a great idea, and the principal naturally raised his hand in agreement.

After more than half a semester, not only the teachers of each subject, but even the principal noticed the problem.

First, there's math. In the second year of junior high, it was taught by Xu Junjie and another teacher.

Xu Junjie only teaches one class because he has other things to do, such as going to the city or other cities and counties to find connections to get test papers and question types.

Another math teacher teaches classes two and three.

Without Xu Junjie praising himself, all the teachers agree that Xu Junjie's teaching level is far superior to that of the other teacher.

Secondly, there's Chinese language. There's not much to compare here. In the second year of junior high, there's only one teacher teaching Chinese, who is responsible for three classes.

Next is foreign language. The teacher for class one is a senior English teacher from the school. He has a lot of teaching experience and is highly respected by both teachers and students.

The teachers who taught classes two and three were assigned to the same class as Wan Chunyan, and they lacked both seniority and experience.

Next up are physics and chemistry. Needless to say, there's only one chemistry teacher in the second year of junior high, who teaches three classes at the same time.

There are two physics teachers: Wan Chunyan teaches Class 3, and the other teacher teaches Class 1 and Class 2.

To be fair, aside from the small experiments that enhance students' interest, Wan Chunyan's physics teaching is still somewhat inferior to that of the other teacher.

Of course, after a semester, Wan Chunyan has also made considerable progress.

Importantly, Wan Chunyan's small experiments were only somewhat effective in the first and second years of junior high school.

By the time we reach the third year of junior high school, we're basically in the final sprint for the high school entrance exam. At that point, these little experiments are completely unnecessary; what's important is the teacher's experience and guidance.

Wan Chunyan didn't realize this, but the principal certainly did.

As for the rest of history and social studies, there was only one teacher in the second year of junior high, so there wasn't much to discuss.

This lesson observation and exchange mainly focused on three subjects: mathematics, English, and physics.

Who has the strongest teaching ability? After more than half a semester, the principal and teachers of all subjects had basically reached a consensus.

Xu Junjie didn't take any further action. The school leaders and colleagues had already reached a certain consensus: his first objective had been achieved.

With final exams fast approaching, Xu Junjie began to pull strings to find a valuable set of exam papers.

The principal was also very satisfied with Xu Junjie's attitude. In his view, Xu Junjie was a good comrade who devoted himself to his work.

At the same time, the principal was also very troubled: who should be selected as this year's model teacher?

When it comes to teaching ability and work attitude, Xu Junjie is undoubtedly the top choice.

The principal has observed this through attending classes this semester, and it's clear that Ms. Wan Chunyan's teaching is only passable.

The two high-achieving students in Teacher Wan's class have little to do with Teacher Wan's teaching ability.

If there is any connection, it is related to Teacher Wan's insights into children's early school years.

Those two kids in Teacher Wan's class are truly a case of hidden gems; their talent is simply too great.

As we progressed through the second year of junior high, in addition to various exams, there were also several subject-specific competitions.

Principal Zhao Changling's first place in all categories was not surprising; what was surprising was Yu Xintao from Class 3, the one who ranked tenth in the grade in the first year of junior high, who almost dominated the second place ranking.

Of course, there is still a huge gap between Yu Xintao and Zhao Changling.

In the principal's eyes, the students' academic performance in the second year of junior high school was divided into four levels.

Tier 1: Zhao Changling alone; Tier 2: Blank; Tier 3: Yu Xintao weakly leading the class plus all the students in the class; Tier 4: Children who frequently skip classes in preparation for graduating and getting a job in a factory.

Now the question is, who should be awarded the title of model teacher?

The students taught by Wan Chunyan are far superior to other students. Even if we don't comment on Teacher Wan, this matter would probably be viewed with sympathy by people wherever it is.

Even without Wan Chunyan speaking up, the district education bureau would likely have a negative opinion of their school if they knew.

Let's not comment on Xu Junjie. He has seen Xu Junjie's work ability and work attitude.

If that were the case, it would be a huge blow to the enthusiasm of young people.

The key point is that, apart from the fact that no one in the class was like Zhao Changling, Xu Junjie was superior to Wan Chunyan in every other aspect of his work.

He plays a very important role in the school; they rely on him to handle many matters.

We can't possibly award two more titles this year, can we? The principal would like to do that, but the problem is, when it comes to the final evaluation of professional titles, he can't just split the titles in half and give each person half, can he?

The number of spots is limited. If he had an extra spot, he wouldn't be having such a headache.

Just when the old principal was having a splitting headache over this problem, Xu Junjie brought him a prescription.

"Principal! This is a junior high school exam paper from Xiangnan No. 2 Middle School that I found. I have an idea for it."

Xu Junjie handed the six file folders, still sealed, to the principal.

"You've worked hard! Sit down and have some water first, speak slowly and don't rush."

The former principal left his seat and personally moved a chair for Xu Junjie.

Xiangnan No. 2 Middle School is a well-known key junior high school in the province.

"The teacher who gave me the test paper this time said that their test paper was a bit difficult this time. Apart from not covering the knowledge content of the third year of junior high school, the difficulty was comparable to the high school entrance examination."

Xu Junjie put down the cup and straightened his back.

"So I had an idea: to use this exam to thoroughly examine the abilities of all the students."

The old principal became interested. "Tell me more about it."

Xu Junjie pointed to the six file folders.

"I haven't even looked at these test papers. I hope the school will keep them confidential and have someone print them outside so they can be handed over to the invigilators before the exam."

"Is this necessary?"

The old principal didn't care about spending the money outside; the main problem was the hassle.

"Yes!" Xu Junjie nodded firmly.

"I want to use this exam to re-group students into the honors classes based on their rankings."

Before the principal could speak, Xu Junjie quickly explained.

"Principal! Through this lesson observation, you may have noticed that there are still differences in the teaching levels among our junior high school teachers of different subjects."

"Now, each class has students who are doing well in their studies, especially Class 3, which not only has outstanding students like Zhao Changling and Yu Xintao, but also several students with great potential."

"However, apart from Teacher Wan, whose teaching level is quite good, the other teachers in Class 3 are still not as good as those in Class 1."

"They're about to enter the final year of junior high, a crucial year for preparing for the high school entrance exam. If students in other classes don't have the best teachers to guide them, both the students and their parents may become dissatisfied with the school."

"My idea is this: the top forty students in this year's junior high exam will be reassigned to a new class."

After listening to Xu Junjie's words, the old principal tapped the table.

"Your idea is good, Class Two shouldn't be a problem, but what about Teacher Wan from Class Three?"

"Principal, I haven't finished yet," Xu Junjie said with a smile.

"The new class's homeroom teacher will be re-appointed by the school leaders. Even if the principal arranges for Teacher Wan to be the homeroom teacher of the new class, I will have no complaints, because it is all for the good of the children."

"However, if Teacher Wan becomes the homeroom teacher of the new class, then Teacher Wan will have to teach physics to the new class."

"However, I personally feel that Mr. Zhou (note: the current physics teacher of Class 1) is still the better teacher in the third year of junior high school."

"If I were to become the homeroom teacher of this new class, I would personally declare that I would withdraw from this year's model teacher selection and fully support Teacher Wan's election."

After he finished speaking, he stared intently at the principal.

Xu Junjie's words were like a long-awaited rain, instantly soothing the principal's heart.

What makes a good comrade? This is a good comrade! He solved all the problems that had been troubling the leader for so long in one go.

The old principal rushed over and shook Xu Junjie's hand.

"Teacher Xu, on behalf of the school leaders, I would like to express my gratitude for your contributions to the school."

"Go back and wait for our notification. Our leadership team will study this carefully and will definitely give all teachers and students a satisfactory answer."

Xu Junjie left with peace of mind, not worried at all about what choice the principal would make.

Everyone is not blind; from any perspective, he is undoubtedly the rightful new homeroom teacher.

Choosing Wan Chunyan as the homeroom teacher of the new class? With Wan Chunyan's qualifications, the principal would never dare to do that.

This is a school for children of employees. Putting aside the opinions of other teachers, all the parents of the children are acquaintances.

When the gossip spreads throughout the factory, not only will the principal be unable to bear it, but Wan Chunyan's father-in-law, who is also a party official, will also be in trouble.

......

"Xu Junjie! You've gone too far."

Wan Chunyan, who is usually as docile as a kitten, is now as angry as a tigress.

Just now, Wan Chunyan heard from her colleague that the final exams for the second year of junior high school had just ended, and the school announced the establishment of an elite class.

The top 40 students in the grade in this exam have all been assigned to the new elite class.

The original Class 2 and Class 3 will be retained, and Xu Junjie, the original homeroom teacher of Class 1, will become the homeroom teacher of the new Class 1 after the start of the new semester.

Zhao Changling was undoubtedly the top student in the entire grade again, and this time he was also assigned to the new Class 1.

Not only Zhao Changling, but also four other students from the original Class 3, including Yu Xintao, were also assigned to the new Class 1.

Wan Chunyan heard from her colleagues that this class assignment was the result of Xu Junjie's suggestion to the school leaders.

Wan Chunyan was both angry and helpless about Xu Junjie's act of taking credit for others' work.

Because she heard the news too late, it was too late to change the school leaders' decision.

She could only imagine that Zhao Changling would get high scores in the high school entrance exam and be admitted to a key high school, and then Xu Junjie would act like he had done a great service.

Seeing Xu Junjie's smugness when he became the homeroom teacher, Wan Chunyan realized something.

The reason Xu Junjie had a gloomy expression earlier had little to do with her being newly married; he was more concerned about his career.

Xu Junjie's behavior has turned all her past colorful memories of love into gray.

To her relief, she finally saw the true colors of some people.

When Wan Chunyan got angry, she went straight home for summer vacation.

......

Zhao Gang came home from get off work and found Wan Chunyan angry at home. "Wife! Who bullied you?"

Wan Chunyan had no one to confide in, and now this is perfect opportunity.

She poured out all her grievances to her husband, adding embellishments as she went along, completely and thoroughly.

After listening, Zhao Gang stroked his chin and smacked his lips.

"To be honest, there's really no way to reason with this. The school leaders and Xu Junjie didn't do anything wrong. If there's any fault, it's the system itself."

Wan Chunyan became anxious. "What do you mean it's not wrong? When the classes were divided, they assigned me the worst students."

"Ugh! You think I'll reap the rewards after I've taught my students and their grades have improved? Is that how it works? So all my hard work these past two years has been for nothing?"

Wan Chunyan became increasingly angry as she spoke, wishing she could grab Zhao Gang's ear and talk to him.

"Honey, don't rush me, let me explain it to you slowly."

Zhao Gang didn't do well in school, but that doesn't mean he wasn't smart.

Moreover, his father was a party official in the factory, and by following his father around, he saw many things more clearly than Wan Chunyan.

"First of all, the improved academic performance of these students in your class certainly deserves some credit. But..."

Zhao Gang drew out the last two words.

"The main reason is that the students themselves know they have worked hard, and it is the result of their proactive learning."

"Secondly, all the teachers, including yourself, admit that the math and English teachers in Class 1 are better than those in your class."

"Schools need to achieve results to improve their reputation, and teachers need to have the qualifications to be evaluated for professional titles. This is the general trend under this system, and it is not something you can control."

"Xu Junjie's idea is quite brilliant; it's a well-laid plan, and there's no way to solve it."

"Because...not only does the school support him, but all the teachers, students, and parents believe that what he did was right."

"Even though he ultimately benefited, he didn't do anything wrong. It's just that what he did was despicable and showed a very poor character to you."

As Zhao Gang slowly analyzed the situation, Wan Chunyan was unconvinced; she was still angry.

"Why do you say that the students and their parents support him? I don't think Changling and his parents think that way."

Zhao Gang could only chuckle at Wan Chunyan's words.

"Hehe! Brother Zhao is no ordinary person, but he can't represent everyone. There are other students in your class too."

Zhao Gang got into the conversation and took out a cigarette to light.

"There are some things I'm too lazy to tell you, you probably don't know. Yu Xintao from your class got second place in the grade this time, do you know what happened in between?"

Wan Chunyan said matter-of-factly, "Yu Xintao is very clever, what else could he be thinking?"

Zhao Gang exhaled a puff of smoke and began to explain slowly.

"Yu Xintao's parents took him to visit Teacher Mao's home for the Spring Festival this year. Then, Teacher Mao tutored Yu Xintao in English every weekend this semester."

Ms. Mao was the English teacher of Class One, and her English level was much higher than that of the other teacher in their class, which Wan Chunyan knew.

"Doesn't the government explicitly prohibit providing extracurricular tutoring or charging fees for classes for students?"

"They didn't take any money. It's not illegal for students' parents to visit each other during holidays and bring small gifts, is it?"

Zhao Gang continued, "His parents not only went to Teacher Mao's house, but also to Xu Junjie's house. If I'm not mistaken, Yu Xintao's English and math grades should have improved this semester."

Wan Chunyan was a little confused. She only knew that Yu Xintao had ranked second in the grade this time, but she hadn't really paid attention to whether his math and English had improved.

She's a terrible homeroom teacher, but she doesn't seem to realize it. Even now, talking to her husband, she's still being stubborn and refusing to admit it.

"How do you know so much about these things? Are you doing espionage?"

Zhao Gang disagreed.

"Your husband isn't a worker anymore; he's doing political work now. Our workplace is just a small, run-down place; if you pay a little attention, you'll find out what's going on."

"Yanzi! I think things are fine as they are."

"Your thinking is too simplistic; you can't understand the complexities of the world."

"Our company may be small, but it has all the essential functions. There are so many personnel struggles that you can't understand them."

"Relatively speaking, the school is better; it only involves the evaluation of professional titles and personnel adjustments."

"Even if it's all this, what's the point of arguing? Do you expect me, a grown man, to support you?"

"Just teach quietly at school, and go out and have fun during holidays. Don't bother with those petty personnel matters. The most important thing is to live a relaxed life."

"If you need a professional title, you can have one; if you don't, we won't miss out on the extra money. Our company-run school might go out of business any day, so why make your life so difficult?"

"As long as your husband works hard and achieves something to support the family, even if you lose your job in the future, I can still support you."

Zhao Gang tried to persuade her at length, but Wan Chunyan was still somewhat unconvinced.

"I understand what you're saying. I don't care about the other students, I'm just furious that he took Changling away from me."

With his wife acting like this, Zhao Gang could only continue to appease her.

"Brother Zhao is a good man; he'll definitely be someone important in the future. However..."

Zhao Gang paused for a moment.

"I believe that someone as capable as Brother Zhao wouldn't care which teacher he was taught by."

"But... his parents, perhaps because they have a good relationship with our family, may not say it, but they probably still hope that their child can have a better teacher."

"After all, those are their own children, not ours."

When the topic of children came up, Wan Chunyan got angry.

"To take care of these kids, I haven't even dared to rush into having my own child. My own child! Humph! I'll go have one right now."

Upon hearing this, Zhao Gang's eyes lit up. "Madam! I guarantee I'll complete the mission."

"Then hurry up and go take a shower!" Wan Chunyan spat, her face flushed with embarrassment.

"Understood..." Zhao Gang dashed off to the bathroom.