Chapter Nine: Sunset School and Afterword Summary and Analysis

Gradually word spread in the larger community about the success of the Weedpatch School. The school offered benefits that weren't available in other schools in the region. The kids were able to learn practical skills like airplane mechanics and farming. Hot breakfasts cost a cent, lunch two cents and for those students who couldn't afford that, meals were free. The teachers at Weedpatch were considered the best in the county, as was its chemistry lab. The kids were treated to special outings and had their own swimming pool to boot. The school was commended for its lack of disciplinary problems. Equipment and supplies were left lying around in the open—but none of the students stole anything. The students had a vested interest in the school—it was their...