All day, every day, this was his room for the next two years. Yet it was one part of his past he had no qualms about revisiting.
-- Narrator (chapter 4)

Importance: Much of the book up to this point has been about Ryan's difficult and traumatic past. So by saying that there was a part of Ryan's past that was not painful to revisit, the author uses contrast to show how special that classroom had been to Ryan and what a positive experience it had been. This classroom stands out as a positive part of Ryan's childhood.

Because if I send them out, they're thinking, 'She can't handle me.
-- Mrs. Hughes (chapter 4)

Importance: Mrs. Hughes' dialogue demonstrates her determination and dedication to teaching and making a difference for the kids; she actually deeply cares. So many adults are afraid of Ryan and his rage, but Mrs. Hughes would not want kids to think that they are too...