Between a mother and the school principal about her child's disregard for studies

"Hello I am Student's mother,” said the mom. “Is there anything I can do to make Student want to study more?”

“Yes,” said the principal. “You can motivate student with prizes and rewards, such as more screen time, an extra dessert, etc.”

“What if this doesn’t work?” asks the mom.

“Well, then I can have the teachers motivate your child to work harder,” suggested the principal.

“Ok, I will do my best to do my part, and you can do your best to do your part,” the mom suggested hopefully.

“I am a very busy person, but I will see what I can do about this situation with Student,” assured the principal.

“Thank you so much!” exclaimed the mom. “This was very helpful and will most likely work on my child.”

“No problem,” replied the principal. “If you need help in the future you can just ask me.”

“I most certainly will,” said the mom. 

a white heron is a short story by american author sarah orne jewett. first published in 1886, it was later used as the title story in a white heron and other stories.