Starting a new job is always a rollercoaster of excitement and nerves, but nothing could have prepared one of my newest colleagues and me for our first and very memorable interaction!
Getting to Know You
My initial mission seemed simple—on paper, at least: visit schools, get to know the district, and prepare to hire someone for a new leadership role overseeing secondary education.
One high school principal stood out as the perfect candidate for the position. He was soon set to join the central office team in this new capacity, but I decided to visit his school first as part of my get-acquainted tour. What I didn’t realize was that this principal worked in a building where “team bonding” involved pranks with Olympic-level precision and timing.
The Plant
Earlier that day, an assistant principal confiscated some, let’s call it, “educationally questionable” reading material from a student locker. Naturally, instead of just tossing it in the trash like a responsible adult, he decided to turn it into comedy gold. His bright idea? Slip the magazine into the principal’s briefcase. The assumption was that the principal would discover it later, probably at home, and get a good laugh—or a mild heart attack.
But as they say, timing is everything.
As I strolled into the principal’s office, he was tidying up for our meeting. Right on cue, he opened his briefcase in front of me, only to reveal the very much not work-appropriate magazine nestled inside!
The Art of Playing It Cool
The poor man froze. I could see the color drain from his face, not knowing that he just realized what had happened. In that split second, he was mentally drafting his resignation letter and planning his new career as a llama farmer. Meanwhile, I—completely oblivious—didn’t even notice the magazine!
Later, as I got to know him and the staff better, this story became legendary in their prank history. The assistant principal eventually confessed, likely through tears of laughter, and I learned that when it comes to prank wars, schools can give The Office a run for its money.
Key Takeaways
- Be careful when you open your bag in public. What’s inside might surprise you—and not always in a good way.
- Keep your sense of humor within arm’s reach. In education, it’s less of a personality trait and more of a survival tool.
- Prank with caution (and a backup plan). Because once the gauntlet is thrown, you’re in it for the long haul. Retaliation is a matter of when, not if.
- Learn to laugh at the chaos. Whether it’s an accidental first impression or a day full of surprises, these moments are what make the job unforgettable.
Ultimately, these moments remind us why we do what we do. Education is full of surprises—some hilarious, some humbling, but all part of the journey. And honestly, You Can’t Make It Up!
Jane