Supergifted

Hashtag’s deep secret is that his arm is actually fine; he’s simply afraid of rejoining the team and ruining their winning streak. Rather than face backlash and criticism if his reentry coincided with a loss, he sits on the sidelines and gives players encouragement and advice. This makes him appreciate the cheerleaders, though he also credits Noah with his changed attitude toward cheerleading: He is impressed that Noah has managed to become an adequate member of the squad.

Megan disagrees that Noah even meets the criteria for “fine,” but Hashtag stands up for Noah. He tells her that although he also used to make fun of Noah and hide his pants in gym class, he has now started to like the local hero. Megan points out that Hashtag has started slouching like Noah, and Hashtag realizes that many students have started copying Noah; he has become “a fashion statement.” Hashtag is untroubled, however, and looks forward to the governor awarding Noah a medal in a few days.

The whole school is preparing for the big award assembly: There has been no homework for days, teachers are busy making posters, and there are huge streamers with Noah’s face on them festooning the hallways.