All My Raisins in the Son

Another September has rolled around, and Nora O’Reilley is determined not to be defeated by disillusionment. That’s not an easy task in the teachers’ lounge at Lincoln High School, occupied by a motley staff of burnouts, survivors and connivers. In walks Victoria Turner, Nora’s former star student and the new English teacher.

As the fall term progresses, both Nora and Victoria battle the inanity of the school system as well as the cynicism, despair and personal agendas of their colleagues. They become increasingly despondent—Victoria because she feels in over her head as a new teacher and Nora because she realizes that she’s losing her zeal and efficacy.

Victoria turns to Nora for support, who gladly gives it in a subconscious attempt to help herself. They find a common enemy in Susan Wagner, the new assistant principal whom Victoria. was hired to replace in the classroom. Nora intervenes to protect Victoria from Susan’s harassment and then must fight her own battle for survival against Susan. Nora prevails, but Victoria loses her job when Susan is removed and sent back to the classroom. Nora then resigns and passes the torch to Victoria.