The Secret School

At supper, Ida announces that she must get to school early the next morning: “The new teacher starts” (43). Her father expresses surprise at how fast the school board found a new one. Ida admits that she’s the new teacher. Quietly, she explains why.

Mr. Bidson asks what the school board thinks of this plan. Ida says they’re not telling Mr. Jordan. Her father doesn’t much care for the school board chairman, whom he regards as a cheapskate. He smiles and says the kids won’t be able to keep the secret, but Ida’s welcome to try as long as she puts her farm work first.

Ida wakes early, does her chores, and drives to school with Felix. She climbs in through the window and makes herself sit in the teacher’s chair. She answers a knock on the door: It’s Felix with an armful of wood for the stove.

At 8:30, Ida rings the bell and steps outside with the flag. The kids assemble, and they raise the flag together. Back inside, Ida informs them she’s now “Miss Bidson” and that they must greet her that way. As usual, Susie Spool steps forward and leads the class in a song.