Ducks

On the day before the last day of school, Mr. Tushman calls August to his office to report that the seventh graders from the retreat have been identified. He shows August the mangled headband of August’s hearing aids, found in Edward “Eddie” Johnson’s locker. When asked about pressing charges, August initially declines, noting he will be fitted for new hearing aids.

Mr. Tushman advises August to discuss the decision with his parents and explains that consequences would involve juvenile court, not jail. They reflect on the school year’s highs and lows, including the attack at the nature reserve that paradoxically strengthened August’s bonds with classmates when others defended him.

Mr. Tushman reveals he knew about the hallway tensions and the mean locker notes involving Julian and wishes August and Jack had come to him. He then discloses that Julian Albans will not return to Beecher Prep next year, citing his parents’ belief that the school isn’t a good fit.

August notices his “Self-Portrait as an Animal” from the art show—depicting a duck—now framed on Mr. Tushman’s wall. When asked about symbolism, August says he chose a duck because he thinks he looks like one, which amuses Mr. Tushman. They end the meeting on warm terms, planning to see each other at graduation.