6. School's Out

SCHOOL'S OUT 6 KA-BOOM! Every dodgeball slammed into the doors. The doors flung open. The students sped into the hall. POP! The entire school seemed to be waiting there. Principal Winik stood alongside Ms. Grinker and Mr. Nekobi.

"Why were these doors locked?" Principal Winik barked. Sam looked to Antonio and Lucy. They knew it was the school itself that had locked the doors. And it was the school itself that had caused the gymnasium to fall apart. "As of now, the gym is off-limits!" Principal Winik announced. Sam eyed Mr. Nekobi. They both understood that this was not about the gym— it was about the school. "Principal Winik," Mr. Nekobi said, "many things have gone wrong today: the stone plaque fell, a toilet exploded, a heater burst, and now this."

"You're right," the principal replied. "We can't have students in danger. I'm canceling school for the rest of the day." Sam was desperate to discuss the day's events with Mr. Nekobi, but there was no chance to talk. Ms. Grinker led the class outside. Sam's classmates were thrilled to be leaving early. Everyone was happy. Everyone but Sam, Lucy, and Antonio.

"Maybe Orson doesn't have anything to do with the school falling apart," Lucy said hopefully. "No way!" Antonio exclaimed. "Nothing at Eerie Elementary is ever just a coincidence. Orson always has some crazy plan!" "True," Sam said. "But what is his plan?" Lucy and Antonio didn't reply. Sam was only sure of one thing: The three of them needed to uncover Orson's plan before someone got hurt— or worse!