Mr. Hansen, a middle school teacher, becomes concerned about one of his students, Steven, who appears tired and anxious during class. While Mr. Hansen pays attention to all his students, he specifically looks out for signs of fatigue or stress in those who consistently exhibit such behaviors.
If he notices a pattern, he takes steps to help, such as checking in with them, assisting with their struggles, or offering snacks if they missed lunch. On this particular day, Mr. Hansen notices Steven’s fatigue and hears his stomach growling, leading him to worry that the student might not be eating properly.
To address his concerns, Mr. Hansen sets up a basket of snacks in the classroom, allowing students to help themselves if they feel hungry or simply want a treat. He notices that Steven takes a bag of chips from the basket, indicating that the student was indeed hungry. Although Mr. Hansen is relieved that Steven took the snack, he remains worried and decides to contact Steven’s mother to discuss the situation.
Mr. Hansen calls Steven’s mother, Ms. Miller, and reassures her that Steven is doing well in his class, even mentioning his recent 90% score on a quiz. However, Mr. Hansen expresses his concern about Steven’s tiredness and wants to ensure he is eating and sleeping adequately at home. Ms. Miller explains that Steven eats well during breakfast and dinner, but she also mentions that he tends to snack more when he gets home. When Mr. Hansen inquires about Steven’s school lunch, Ms. Miller confirms that she packs him a lunch every day, which he brings back empty.
Since Steven is at a sleepover, Mr. Hansen plans to talk to him during lunch the next day. He intends to provide snacks for anyone in need but wants to verify everything personally. Mr. Hansen then assures Ms. Miller that he will keep her updated on any findings. They conclude the conversation, grateful for Mr. Hansen’s concern and willingness to address the situation.
The following day, before having his own lunch, Mr. Hansen visits the cafeteria to observe the students. He spots Steven sitting with another student he doesn’t recognize and notices Steven sharing his lunch with him. Steven divides his lunch in half and shares one portion with his friend, who seems delighted. Mr. Hansen returns to his classroom to eat his own lunch but decides to talk to Steven privately after class.
After the other students leave, Mr. Hansen asks Steven about his friend and why he has been sharing his lunch. Steven nervously explains that his friend, Jimmy, never brings lunch to school, and he wanted to help him because Jimmy doesn’t have anyone. Mr. Hansen reassures Steven that he did nothing wrong and commends his compassion for his friend.
Mr. Hansen offers Steven a snack from the basket and tells him he will call his mother but emphasizes that Steven is not in trouble. They discuss their concerns about his eating habits, but Mr. Hansen assures Steven that they will make sure Jimmy also has enough to eat. With a smile, Mr. Hansen ruffles Steven’s hair and takes the snack basket to call his mother, ensuring that both Steven and his friend will be taken care of.
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