Chapter 2 Summary and Analysis

Sheila is dragged into the classroom by Ed on January 8th. Her hair is matted, she smells bad, and she has a mean expression on her face. Sheila does not respond to Torey or any of the other children.

In order to keep all the kids in the room, Torey must keep the door locked. Each morning Torey begins the day with discussion. The discussions focus on feelings or are used to work out problems in the room. After discussion, each child is given an opportunity to share what they have done since school the day before. On the morning that Sheila arrives, Torey uses discussion time to introduce Sheila and allow the students to ask questions about being new. While Anton works with the other children on math, Torey tries to show Sheila the room. However, Sheila refuses to move...