Brenda and I explained our new rules, emphasizing that the boys could continue to volunteer later only in a registered, supervised setting.

Ms.

Fischer offered to connect them with the school’s service-learning coordinator, who could help them find suitable opportunities.

Outside the office, Toby admitted he had feared suspension or public humiliation.

Instead, someone had treated the situation as serious while still believing he could grow from it.

“That’s usually what consequences should be for,” I said.

“Not just making you feel terrible.”

He looked toward Gavin, whose crutches clicked along the hallway.