The fact that George was fond of animals, insects, snakes, etc., was the
clew for the teacher to work upon in gaining the good will and
coöperation of the troublesome boy. Knowing one strong interest that he
had, the teacher should start with that and work out from it to other
and broader fields of action.
Unless the teacher had actual proof to the contrary, she should have
accepted the boy’s statement that he did not bring in the snake. It is
far better that a guilty boy go unpunished, than that an innocent person
be punished. Take the initiative in coöperation with the troublesome
pupil and the troubles will soon disappear.