"Can we have a shower for you?"
"No, we're taking the MEAP."
"Can we have a shower for you?"
"How do you expect to take the MEAP and throw a party?"
"Can we have a shower for you?"

Oh, those buggers. Trying to throw me off the trail. Whining because I wouldn't let them bring treats. Those stinkers.

Phase One of Operation: 8th grade Baby Shower went into effect 2-1/2 weeks ago, when they convinced the two guidance counselors AND the vice principal into setting up a "meeting" during third hour that I had to attend. One of the counselors would cover my class. Turns out, that's when the scheme was hatched.

Phase Two: The Planning took place over the last 1-1/2 weeks, where meetings were called of 27 students during their lunch hour every few days in the cafeteria to discuss the menu and gifts.

Phase Three: The Implementation took place today. Six of them approached me with passes to the counselor, needing to leave 5 minutes early. Hannah took me aside and explained there was "girl trauma" but not to worry, she would come and see me after class. I thought nothing of it - 13 year old girls have traumas all the time.

At the end of class Hannah returned from the counselor and basically just chatted like usual, asking for my school email so she could write while I was gone, going on about the new sub, asking to see her grade. Finally she says Ms. O wants to see me in her room to show me some pictures. I'm then sidetracked in the hall by another of my 8th graders, who asked me questions about how he should prep for the MEAP tonight.

Finally, I open the door to Ms. O's room, where ALL 27 of my students yelled "Surprise!" They had ordered pizza, a cake was decorated, pop, and gifts were overflowing a table. They spent their entire lunch hour (boys included!) with me, taking pictures, opening gifts.

I even shed a couple tears when I first walked in, which made them mightily pleased. Talk about amazing.