It wasn't until around 4 PM that the students' exams finally concluded. Alan dismissed them and summoned the Subject Representatives to the office to grade the papers. By evening, Alan finally received the scores for the young wizards of Slytherin.
However, when he looked over the results, he felt a surge of concern; the academic foundation of these young wizards was undeniably poor.
According to the subject scores, 19% were below 'P' (Poor), 38% were at 'A' (Acceptable), 34% reached 'E' (Exceeds Expectations), and only 9% achieved an 'O' (Outstanding). This meant that 57% of the results were below an 'E', which was simply dreadful. Looking at the individual averages, there was a massive disparity. The scores of the older wizards in the sixth and seventh years were almost all 'E' or above—though, naturally, they wouldn't have passed their O.W.L.s in subjects where they were currently struggling. Even accounting for the fact that the seniors took fewer subjects, their higher marks couldn't hide the fact that the performance of the second through fifth years was abysmal.
Among those younger years, fewer than twenty students had all their scores at 'A' or above, and only two had secured straight 'E's: Evan from the third year and the Prefect, Jenny Moriah.
"It seems the lower and middle years are the hardest hit. I'll have to adjust the plan," Alan murmured.
"The seventh years need to focus on their final exams and can't be diverted. Therefore, only the sixth-year students can assist the Subject Representatives in tutoring the others, provided they maintain their own grades. We'll organize study groups by year and subject. The first and second-year curricula are similar enough to be combined. The third and fourth years can form another. The fifth year, facing their O.W.L.s, has the most demanding task and will require a separate group."
"If each Subject Representative is assigned two sixth-year assistants, the three of them can manage three study groups, which should cover the students struggling in those specific subjects. During evening self-study, 7 PM to 9 PM will be for homework and general questions. From 9 PM to 11 PM, those with poor scores will stay for remedial lessons within their study groups."
"We'll focus on one subject per day. With seven main subjects and two electives, including weekends, we can complete three full rounds of review each month—just in time for the monthly exams."
Alan stroked his chin, finalizing the logistics in his mind. He then called the Subject Representatives together to convey the decision.
"What? Does that mean I have to join study groups for every subject except History of Magic? And I have to tutor them in History of Magic? That means I'm stuck here until 11 PM every night! No way! Staying up late causes dark circles!" Vivian looked at Alan in horror, tears welling in her eyes.
"You're complaining now? Where was this concern when you were slacking off before?" Alan rolled his eyes at her. "As long as your scores in other subjects improve, you won't have to stay for the late sessions. Your destiny is in your own hands, Vivian."
Ignoring her further protests, Alan turned to the others. "Louis, Wendy, please go and invite all the sixth-year students. These measures require their support."
Wendy and Louis nodded, and soon the sixth years were brought into the office. Alan laid out the requirements to the older wizards.
"This is the situation. For the sake of the House's standing, we need your help. Due to the staff shortage, some of you will need to act as assistant representatives for two or more subjects. I won't force you in the name of Slytherin," Alan said, waving a hand as a small wooden box appeared beside him. He opened it to reveal rows of vials. "These are strengthening potions. Nothing extravagant, but consider them an incentive. The Subject Representatives will receive them as well. For every course you commit to assisting, I will give you a bottle."
In truth, even without the potions, these sixth-year students wouldn't have refused. They knew Alan was acting in Slytherin's best interest. The House had felt like stagnant water for years, and they were eager to contribute. However, the material reward certainly boosted their enthusiasm, and the roles were quickly filled.
Alan watched them with a nod of satisfaction but kept his expression stern. "I am pleased with your willingness to contribute, but I must remind you: I will not give you special treatment regarding discipline just because of your performance here."
"Don't worry, this is voluntary. We only want to see Slytherin's banner flying in the Great Hall this year," a sixth-year wizard said with a smile, and the others nodded.
"Good." Alan's expression turned solemn. He stood up, placing his right hand over his heart. "May Slytherin's banner fly high. Glory to Slytherin; victory above all!"
"May Slytherin's banner fly high! Glory to Slytherin; victory above all!" they chanted in unison.
With the study groups finalized, Alan dismissed the group, but signaled for William to stay.
"Is there something else?" William asked, looking puzzled.
"Did you forget our conversation yesterday?" Alan asked, tidying his desk with a soft chuckle.
"You mean... talking to Gryffindor about Quidditch? So soon?"
"I don't like to procrastinate. When Louis went to the Prefect meeting this morning, I had him arrange a meeting with the Gryffindor Prefects for 8 PM tonight at the Astronomy Tower. They've agreed, and the time is exactly right. Since you're the Captain, you're coming with me."
"Is it safe for just the two of us to go?" William asked, clearly concerned. "There won't be a trap, will there? You know how the two Houses are."
"If there is a trap, so much the better. Solving problems the simple way is more my style. However, Louis said he arranged it with Charles and their seventh-year Prefect, and they seemed sincere," Alan said, glancing back with a smile.