Businesswoman Chapter 42

Sun shone in the school. The whole place looked state-of-the-art. This academy in Wilmington welcomed grades first through twelfth. It showed how the progress of education ran against the controls of the city, state, and federal governments. When Loreen and Lisa arrived, they gasped at how spotless and new-agey the place felt.

“Businesswoman, Businessgirl, welcome to Thomas West Institute, or as we like to call it TWIn,” Principal Meleka French smiled and shook hands.

“Please, call us—”

“Loreen and Lisa. I just had to say your alter-egos to your face. Please, you can follow me to one of our tenth grade classes.”

Throughout the space, achievements of all people adorned the walls. Models of rocket ships and test tubes and folios of famous literature abounded. The three of them headed to the front of the class.

“Everyone say good morning Mrs. Breen and Miss Conway!”

The sound didn’t ring like it was rote. It actually lilted. They then exited and entered Meleka’s office.

“We’ve been doing well for a private institution, but for the past two quarters, enrollments have decreased steeply,” Meleka related.

“And that’s why we’re here. We want to make sure that this school distinguishes itself from the rest. To do that, you have to boost the idea of achievement for those who deserve it. That’s justice,” Loreen intoned.

“Absolutely,” Lisa championed her partner. “When you did away with DEI, that was a massive improvement. The parents became skittish and pulled their pupils from your school. That’s a shame. But we can remedy that with your balance sheets.”

Meleka drew up the digital files and displayed the figures.

Both Loreen and Lisa frowned then brightened like light reflecting off of new coins.

“We can help you, definitely. You ought to demonstrate how merit-based, objective education rules,” Loreen beamed.