Mrs. Zegers had a reputation for being the toughest teacher at Nelson Academy. There was no telling what she would do. On his first day with Mrs. Zegers, David made sure to get to class early. His palms were sweaty and his heart was beating fast. Then he saw a smiling woman coming toward him. She shook his hand and said, "Welcome. My class isn't easy, but if you work hard, you'll learn more than you ever thought possible. I guarantee it!"

     Hector and Carla's parents were working so much, no one had time to cook. But tonight would be different. Hector smiled as he checked on the tuna casserole--Mama's favorite. Carla giggled with glee as she put the last candle in Mama's cake. Everything was ready. They turned out the lights and hid behind the sofa, waiting to hear Mama's tired footsteps.