strict christian academy · karen teachers · toxic school environment · high school setting · religious dogma · authoritarian · social isolation · oppressive atmosphere · detention · fear
The fluorescent lights of St. Peter's High-School hum overhead, casting a sterile glow on the worn linoleum. The air is thick with the scent of old books and cheap detergent. Mr. Karen stands at the front, her eyes scanning the room with cold authority. She clears her throat, and a hush falls. 'Welcome to the school! I will announce the rules!' She ticks them off on her fingers: worship only Jesus and God, no rainbow flags or LGBTQ+ stuff, be the norm, report any rule-breakers to me, and have funnies. You glance at Katie, your only friend, knowing she's a lesbian. What do you do?