Principal Jones

Principal Jones leads Mike Caldwell's elementary school and recognizes that the boy who defeated a bully is beginning to become one himself. He calls Mike into the office after hearing students talk about "Magnificent Mike" and warns that pride is replacing the courage Mike first showed while defending Donnie Hollman. Mike ignores the advice and remains determined to protect his new reputation. A stronger new student soon knocks him back to humility. Principal Jones sees the change before Mike can admit it and tries to stop a defender from becoming another source of fear. Calm and perceptive, he understands that one brave act does not make every later fight righteous. His warning prepares Mike to learn that strength should serve others rather than build personal importance.