New Girl, New Chaos

Kiana Roubini, a temporary transplant from California, is dropped at Greenwich Middle School by her overwhelmed stepmother. After a chaotic morning involving baby vomit and a near-miss with a farm truck driven by Parker Elias, Kiana finds herself lost and unregistered. She stumbles into room 117, following Parker's schedule, and unwittingly joins the infamous "Unteachables"—a class of misfits, troublemakers, and outcasts. The classroom is in disarray, with a bonfire in a trash can and students toasting marshmallows on pencils. Kiana, expecting a short, uneventful stay, is thrust into a world of chaos, camaraderie, and unexpected self-discovery, setting the stage for a transformative journey for both her and her new classmates.

Burned-Out Teacher's Return

Zachary Kermit, once a passionate, award-winning teacher, is now a shell of his former self, counting the days to early retirement after a career-ruining cheating scandal decades ago. The administration, hoping to push him out, assigns him to the dreaded SCS-8 class—the Unteachables. Jaded and emotionally distant, Kermit expects to coast through the year, doing the bare minimum. But the unruly, neglected students and the arrival of a new, idealistic teacher next door, Emma Fountain, begin to stir something long dormant in him. The stage is set for a reluctant redemption, as Kermit and his class are forced to confront their reputations and each other.

The Unteachables Assemble

The SCS-8 class is a collection of students each labeled as "unteachable" for different reasons: Parker, the dyslexic farm kid with a provisional license; Aldo, the anger-prone redhead; Barnstorm, the injured jock; Elaine, the intimidating giant; Rahim, the sleep-deprived artist; Mateo, the pop-culture-obsessed oddball; and Kiana, the accidental member. Their teacher, Mr. Kermit, is disengaged, handing out worksheets and ignoring chaos. The students, used to being written off, test boundaries and each other, but slowly, small moments of connection and understanding begin to emerge, hinting at the potential for change.

Marshmallows and Mayhem

The Unteachables' classroom is a circus of pranks, outbursts, and apathy. Fires are set, floors are buttered, and students sword-fight with rulers. Kiana, initially an outsider, is drawn into the group's strange dynamics. Despite the chaos, she notices the humanity beneath each student's label—Aldo's struggle with anger, Parker's reading difficulties, Elaine's misunderstood strength. The class's antics mask deeper wounds, and Kiana's empathy begins to bridge gaps. Meanwhile, Mr. Kermit's indifference is challenged by the arrival of Emma Fountain, whose optimism and connection to his past stir old feelings and new possibilities.

Kermit's Haunted Past

Mr. Kermit's career was derailed by a cheating scandal involving a student, Jake Terranova, who sold stolen test answers. Though innocent, Kermit became the scapegoat, losing his reputation, his fiancée, and his passion for teaching. The administration's continued mistrust and the presence of Emma, daughter of his former love, keep old wounds fresh. Kermit's bitterness is both a shield and a prison, but the Unteachables' antics and small victories begin to chip away at his defenses, forcing him to confront the possibility of caring again.

Circle Time Collision

Emma Fountain invites SCS-8 to join her class for "Circle Time," a practice from her kindergarten teaching days. The Unteachables, skeptical and awkward, are forced into positive reinforcement exercises. Amidst the discomfort, surprising moments of vulnerability and kindness emerge—Elaine offers a compliment, Aldo struggles to say something nice. The exercise exposes the students' longing for acceptance and the teachers' differing philosophies. The escape of a class pet lizard, Vladimir, adds chaos, but also unites the classes in a shared mission, hinting at the power of community.

Vuvuzela Uprising

As Spirit Week approaches, SCS-8 is excluded from festivities, especially the distribution of vuvuzelas (noisy horns) due to their reputation. Mr. Kermit, who despises the horns, surprisingly advocates for his class's inclusion, revealing a growing sense of responsibility. The students, feeling slighted, hatch a plan to "steal" the vuvuzelas and dump them in the river, inspired by the Grinch. Their heist is both a prank and an act of loyalty to their teacher, culminating in a chaotic chase and a river rescue, where the class's unity and Kermit's care for them are put on public display.

The Grinch of Spirit Week

The aftermath of the vuvuzela heist brings suspensions and administrative wrath. Dr. Thaddeus, the superintendent, sees an opportunity to finally oust Kermit. Yet, the incident also cements the bond between teacher and students—Kermit realizes the kids acted out of loyalty to him, and the class feels, for the first time, that an adult is on their side. The school community begins to notice changes in SCS-8, and Kermit, inspired by their support, starts to re-engage, transforming the classroom into a place of real learning and mutual respect.

The Great Vuvuzela Heist

The Unteachables' elaborate plan to hijack the vuvuzelas is executed with teamwork and ingenuity. Elaine's strength, Parker's driving, and Mateo's distractions all play a part. The heist, though reckless, is motivated by a desire to protect Mr. Kermit from the noise he hates and to assert their right to be included. The resulting chaos—culminating in a mass plunge into the river—draws the attention of the entire school and administration. The event becomes a turning point, exposing the class's loyalty and the administration's failure to understand them.

River Rescue and Repercussions

The river incident becomes local news, reigniting memories of Kermit's old scandal. Dr. Thaddeus seizes on the chaos to justify firing Kermit, but Principal Vargas and others begin to see the positive changes in SCS-8. The class, suspended, uses the time to reflect and bond further. Kermit, meanwhile, is forced to confront his own role in the students' lives and the possibility that he still has something to offer as a teacher. The seeds of redemption are sown, but the threat of termination looms.

Jake Terranova Returns

Jake Terranova, now a successful car dealer, re-enters Kermit's life, seeking to make amends for the cheating scandal that ruined his teacher's career. Emma, who is developing a relationship with Jake, facilitates his involvement with SCS-8, arranging field trips to his dealership. Jake's presence brings up old wounds for Kermit but also offers new opportunities for the students, who are inspired by Jake's success and practical knowledge. The class begins hands-on learning, and Kermit, reluctantly at first, allows real teaching and growth to take root.

Goodbunnies and Second Chances

Emma introduces the "Goodbunnies" reward system—puffy-tail tokens for good deeds and achievements. Initially mocked, the system becomes a catalyst for competition, cooperation, and self-improvement. Kermit starts to grade work, offer feedback, and advocate for his students' needs, including Parker's reading challenges. The class's academic and social progress becomes evident, and even the administration takes notice. The students, once written off, begin to believe in themselves and each other, while Kermit rediscovers his calling as an educator.

Science Fair or Bust

When Kermit's job is threatened by test scores manipulated by Dr. Thaddeus, the Unteachables, with Emma and Jake's help, secretly enter the district science fair. They decide to rebuild Kermit's beloved but decrepit car, the "Coco Nerd," as a working model of an internal combustion engine. The project becomes a symbol of their growth, teamwork, and determination to fight for the teacher who fought for them. The stakes are high: winning could save Kermit's career; losing could mean the end of their class.

The Coco Nerd Reborn

The class pours their energy into transforming the Coco Nerd, learning mechanics, teamwork, and perseverance. Each student finds a role—Parker's mechanical skills, Rahim's art, Elaine's strength, Kiana's leadership. The project is a triumph of hands-on learning and collective effort. On science fair day, the car is unveiled in a dramatic, roaring display, stunning the judges and the school. The moment is both a celebration of their achievement and a plea for Kermit's redemption.

Banner, Fire, and Fallout

The science fair presentation takes a wild turn when the car's celebratory banner catches fire, causing chaos and nearly running over Dr. Thaddeus. Despite the mishap, the project earns second place, and the story of the Unteachables' transformation and Kermit's unjust firing becomes front-page news. The community rallies in support, and the administration is forced to reconsider. The students, though disappointed, realize the true victory is in how far they—and their teacher—have come.

The Unteachables' Last Stand

As Kermit's termination looms, the class refuses to give up. They confront their own feelings of failure and worth, but are buoyed by the support of Emma, Jake, and the community. A heartfelt article in the local paper exposes the injustice, leading to a groundswell of public support. The administration, under pressure, reinstates Kermit, and he chooses to stay on as a teacher, embracing his role with renewed purpose. The Unteachables, once outcasts, are now a model of resilience and transformation.

Redemption and Reunion

With Kermit's job saved and the class's reputation restored, the Unteachables look to the future. Kiana decides to stay in Greenwich, embracing her new family and friends. The students continue to grow, learn, and support each other, proving that no one is truly unteachable. Kermit, once burned-out and broken, is reborn as the teacher he was always meant to be. The story ends with hope, laughter, and the knowledge that redemption is possible for anyone—student or teacher—willing to believe in second chances.

Characters

Kiana Roubini

Kiana is a Californian "short-timer" who stumbles into SCS-8 by mistake, expecting to coast through a temporary stay. Initially detached and critical, she quickly becomes the emotional heart of the class, using her empathy and intelligence to bridge divides among her classmates. Kiana's outsider status allows her to see the strengths and struggles of the Unteachables, and her journey from reluctant participant to committed friend mirrors the class's transformation. Her secret—being unregistered—adds tension, but her eventual acceptance of Greenwich as home and her role in saving Mr. Kermit mark her growth from observer to leader.

Mr. Zachary Kermit

Once a passionate, award-winning educator, Mr. Kermit is haunted by a decades-old cheating scandal that destroyed his career and spirit. Assigned to the Unteachables as a final insult, he begins the year disengaged and cynical, but the students' loyalty and small victories rekindle his sense of purpose. Kermit's journey is one of painful self-examination, as he confronts his own failures and the system's injustices. Through the class's efforts and his own rediscovered passion, he finds redemption, reclaiming his identity as a teacher and advocate for the forgotten.

Parker Elias

Parker is a farm kid with a provisional driver's license, responsible for his aging grandmother and family business. His severe reading difficulties have led to years of frustration and low self-esteem, but his mechanical genius shines in hands-on projects. Parker's journey is one of overcoming shame and finding confidence, aided by Kermit's advocacy and the class's support. His role in the Coco Nerd project and the science fair is pivotal, and his relationship with his grandmother adds depth and vulnerability to his character.

Aldo Braff

Aldo is known for his explosive temper and quick fists, earning him a reputation as a troublemaker. Beneath the bluster, he is sensitive and desperate for acceptance, struggling to manage emotions he doesn't fully understand. His friendship with Kiana and unexpected bond with the class pet, Vladimir, reveal a softer side. Aldo's arc is one of learning self-control, empathy, and the value of second chances, culminating in his emotional response to literature and his willingness to trust others.

Barnstorm Anderson

Once a celebrated athlete, Barnstorm's injury sidelines him and exposes his academic struggles. Used to special treatment, he is forced to confront his limitations and find value beyond sports. His competitive nature drives the Goodbunnies economy, and his loyalty to the class is tested in moments of crisis. Barnstorm's journey is about humility, resilience, and redefining success, as he learns to contribute to the group in new ways.

Elaine Ostrover

Elaine's size and strength make her a figure of fear and legend, but she is quiet, thoughtful, and surprisingly sensitive. Misunderstood by peers and teachers alike, she finds acceptance in SCS-8, where her abilities are valued and her kindness emerges. Elaine's arc is about breaking stereotypes and finding her voice, as she moves from feared outsider to indispensable teammate and friend.

Rahim Barclay

Rahim is perpetually tired due to his stepfather's late-night band rehearsals, but his artistic talent is exceptional. He observes more than he speaks, capturing the class's dynamics in sketches and doodles. With support, he pursues art at a community college, gaining confidence and purpose. Rahim's journey is about finding a place where his gifts are recognized and learning to engage with the world beyond his sketchbook.

Mateo Hendrickson

Mateo lives in a world of science fiction, fantasy, and comic books, using references to make sense of reality. His eccentricity isolates him, but in SCS-8, his knowledge and humor become assets. Mateo's arc is about embracing his uniqueness, building real friendships, and using his imagination to inspire and unite the group.

Emma Fountain

Emma, the new teacher next door, brings kindergarten methods and boundless optimism to middle school. Daughter of Kermit's former fiancée, she is both a reminder of his past and a force for his renewal. Her insistence on positive reinforcement, Circle Time, and the Goodbunnies system challenges Kermit and the students to see themselves differently. Emma's relationship with Jake Terranova and her unwavering belief in the students are instrumental in the class's transformation.

Jake Terranova

Once the student whose cheating scandal ruined Kermit's career, Jake is now a successful car dealer seeking redemption. His involvement with SCS-8—offering field trips, mentorship, and resources—bridges the gap between past and present. Jake's journey is about making amends, using his street smarts for good, and supporting both Kermit and the students in their fight for respect and second chances.

Plot Devices

Multiple Perspectives and Rotating Narrators

The novel employs a rotating first-person narrative, giving voice to Kiana, Mr. Kermit, Parker, Aldo, Barnstorm, Mateo, and others. This structure allows readers to see events from diverse angles, deepening empathy and understanding for each character's struggles and growth. The device also highlights the disconnect between how the students are perceived and who they truly are, reinforcing the theme that no one is unteachable.

Redemption Arc and Second Chances

Both Mr. Kermit and the Unteachables are on parallel journeys of redemption. The plot is driven by their mutual influence—students challenging the teacher's apathy, and the teacher advocating for students no one else believes in. The science fair, vuvuzela heist, and Coco Nerd project serve as crucibles for change, forcing characters to confront their limitations and discover their strengths.

Satire and Social Critique

The novel uses satire—ridiculous administrative policies, Spirit Week excesses, and the Goodbunnies system—to critique the ways schools marginalize difficult students and burned-out teachers. The absurdity of the vuvuzela ban, the manipulation of test scores, and the reliance on superficial rewards all underscore the need for genuine connection and individualized support.

Symbolism and Motifs

The Coco Nerd car symbolizes both Kermit's past and the class's potential for renewal. The Goodbunnies chart, puffy-tails, and Circle Time represent the struggle to find motivation and meaning in unlikely places. The recurring motif of "unteachability" is deconstructed, showing that labels are self-fulfilling only if left unchallenged.

Foreshadowing and Irony

Early references to Kermit's past, the students' hidden talents, and the administration's machinations foreshadow the eventual reversal of fortunes. Irony abounds—Kermit, assigned to the worst class as punishment, finds his greatest fulfillment; the students, written off as hopeless, become the school's most inspiring success story.

Analysis

Gordon Korman's The Unteachables is a vibrant, satirical, and ultimately uplifting exploration of what it means to be written off—and what it takes to fight back. Through a cast of misfit students and a teacher at the end of his rope, the novel exposes the failures of an educational system obsessed with labels, test scores, and conformity. Yet, it also celebrates the messy, unpredictable process of real learning and growth. The rotating perspectives invite readers to empathize with each character's private battles, revealing that "unteachability" is a myth perpetuated by neglect and low expectations. The story's humor and heart come from its willingness to embrace chaos, to find value in the overlooked, and to champion the power of second chances. The science fair climax, with its blend of triumph and disaster, encapsulates the book's message: success is not about perfection, but about resilience, teamwork, and the courage to care. In a world quick to judge and slow to forgive, The Unteachables offers a powerful lesson: everyone—student, teacher, or otherwise—deserves the chance to be seen, believed in, and redeemed.

Last updated: October 31, 2025