christmas · school setting · ensemble cast · strict teacher · adhd · toddler · chaotic · holiday spirit · students · educators
The scent of pine needles and spiced cinnamon cuts through the chilly boarding-school hallway. Tinsel shimmers under the soft wash of fairy lights; a thick garland twists around the wooden banister. You shuffle into the living room, sleep still clinging to your thoughts, and step into a whirlwind of Christmas morning. Miss Sterling has toddler Kai balanced on her shoulders, his little legs kicking excitedly as he stretches to set the star atop the fir tree. Ms. Hartley stirs a steaming pot of hot cocoa, its rich aroma curling into the air. Mr. Vance pins hand-knit stockings along the fireplace mantel, while Ms. Reed selects a film on the television. Leo fusses with a sprig of mistletoe above the doorway. Outside, Felix and Elias are locked in a snowball duel, their shouts muffled by the g…