Faculty and Staff Meeting

The opening ceremony concluded successfully amid an enthusiastic atmosphere.

Led by the teachers assigned to guide their respective classes, the children flowed into the Ninja Academy's main buildings like streams, filled with excitement and anticipation.

The parents gradually dispersed as well, most wearing expressions of relief and expectation.

Nangō Kumoi did not leave with the crowd.

He quietly gave a few instructions to Hiruzen Sarutobi beside him. Hiruzen nodded, swiftly arranged for the Anbu to set up a perimeter, and had the school staff prepare the largest teachers' conference room.

Before long, all active Ninja Academy teachers, grade-level heads, and administrative staff had gathered in the conference room.

With the new Hokage suddenly convening all faculty and staff, everyone could not help feeling somewhat uneasy and curious. The atmosphere in the room was slightly solemn.

Nangō Kumoi and Hiruzen Sarutobi entered last.

He did not take the seat of honor. Instead, he naturally sat at one side of the long table and gestured for everyone to sit.

"Everyone, thank you for your hard work."

Nangō Kumoi spoke with the particular seriousness he displayed while working, though his tone was not harsh.

"There is much to handle at the start of the term, yet I have kept you all here on short notice.

"I will keep this brief. I only wish to emphasize a few points, which will also be areas requiring special attention in the school's future work."

He slowly swept his gaze across the ninjas present, all of whom bore the important responsibility of educating the next generation.

"First, fairness and care.

"As I said in my speech earlier, during my term, discrimination against students at the Ninja Academy because of their background, family, or wealth will absolutely not be tolerated.

"Especially for war orphans and children from struggling families, I hope every teacher will show a little more care and pay attention to their mental state and daily needs.

"If they encounter any difficulties or abnormalities, report them directly to the Hokage Office. We will coordinate a solution.

"This is not charity. It is the village's respect for their parents' sacrifices, and an investment in our own future."

The teachers nodded one after another, and many wore expressions of agreement.

"Second, a slight adjustment to the teaching focus.

"While ensuring the quality of compulsory courses such as basic ninjutsu, taijutsu, and shuriken techniques, I hope we can gradually and appropriately add some new content."

Nangō Kumoi looked toward the academic director in charge of curriculum planning.

"For example, the importance of basic academic subjects—reading, writing, and arithmetic—must not be reduced.

"Add foundational training in wilderness survival and teamwork.

"Introduce basic awareness of chakra natures, as well as common knowledge of medical first aid.

"The goal is not to make the children masters of everything overnight, but to broaden their horizons and lay a more comprehensive foundation.

"As for the specific plan, Hiruzen will take the lead in discussing and drafting it together with all of you afterward."

A thoughtful look flashed through the eyes of several older teachers, while the younger teachers were visibly more interested.

"Third, pay attention to students with exceptional talents."

Nangō Kumoi's tone grew more emphatic.

"There are some children in the village with extraordinary gifts.

"For such promising talents, we need to provide greater attention and guidance.

"However, that attention must not be unprincipled favoritism or forcing growth too quickly. Rather, beyond regular education, we should provide more challenging learning material and more precise guidance.

"At the same time, we must place even greater emphasis on cultivating their character, ensuring that their talents are used on the right path and that they grow into pillars of the village rather than hidden dangers.

"The Hokage Office will directly coordinate with the teachers of the relevant classes regarding the list of such students and specific plans for their care."

This point made many teachers prick up their ears as they secretly wondered which students the Hokage meant.

"Fourth, safety and values.

"The school is a pure place, but it must also teach children to distinguish right from wrong, foster a sense of belonging to the village, and develop a proper understanding of the Will of Fire.

"This is not about empty slogans. It must be achieved through history, heroic deeds, and the words and actions of role models around them.

"At the same time, the school's security level needs to be raised. The Anbu will discuss the specific measures with the school and see them implemented."

"Lastly."

Nangō Kumoi's tone softened, and a faint smile appeared on his face.

"I know that all of you have heavy workloads and face great pressure.

"The village will not forget your contributions.

"In the future, teachers' benefits and teaching resources will gradually improve.

"I also hope that any good suggestions you have, or difficulties you encounter in teaching, can be reported through the proper channels at any time.

"Hiruzen and I are always willing to listen."

He looked toward Hiruzen Sarutobi.

"Senior Brother Hiruzen, do you have anything to add?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi nodded and took over, beginning to explain more specific details and requirements regarding implementation.

For example, how to establish student psychological records, the preliminary screening criteria for exceptionally talented students, and a regular communication mechanism with the Hokage Office.

His explanation was detailed and pragmatic, thoroughly complementing the directions Nangō Kumoi had laid out.

The meeting lasted nearly an hour.

By the end, most of the teachers' initial unease had turned into enthusiasm and clarity.

The new Hokage's emphasis on education exceeded their expectations. The directions he proposed were both forward-looking and seemingly practical, and his attitude was sincere rather than merely issuing orders.

After the meeting, Nangō Kumoi deliberately kept the vice principal and several grade-level heads behind to give them a few additional instructions.

He especially mentioned names requiring particular attention, such as Hatake Sakumo, Orochimaru, and several children Kagami Uchiha had quietly recommended.

However, he also stressed that the approach had to be natural, avoiding pressure on the other students or on those receiving special attention.

By the time they left the school, it was already past ten in the morning.

Bright sunlight filled the grounds, while the children's youthful yet energetic recitations and training chants drifted from within the school.

"Education is a century-long undertaking. It cannot be rushed, but neither can it be delayed."

Nangō Kumoi said this to Hiruzen Sarutobi beside him.

"Senior Brother, I will have to rely on you more in this matter."

"I understand. I will make sure it is properly carried out."

Hiruzen Sarutobi gave his solemn promise.

The two boarded a carriage back to the Hokage Building.

Nangō Kumoi leaned against the seat and closed his eyes to rest.

The first task of the new term had gone smoothly enough.

Next came the progress of the Housing Project, the handover of clerical work with the Nara Clan Leader, Danzo's proposal for establishing Root... Countless matters awaited him.

The carriage rolled over the bluestone road with a steady clatter.

Konoha's day moved onward steadily and resolutely amid this interweaving of busyness and hope.