The episode also marks the end of an era for Janine and Tariq. Despite their history together since eighth grade, Janine eventually realizes they have grown apart, leading to a bittersweet breakup as she decides to stay at Abbott rather than follow him to New York. "Abbott Elementary" Zoo Balloon (TV Episode 2022) - IMDb

: The term "paper" in your query likely refers to the permission slips that Ava Coleman audits at the beginning of the episode, staying behind with students who lacked them. It could also refer to the students' essays about their "heroes" (their teachers) that Mr. Johnson reads to close the season.

Janine's long-term boyfriend, Tariq, reveals he has been offered a job in New York and expects her to move with him. This creates a massive internal conflict for Janine, who must choose between the comfort of her only real relationship and the career she loves in Philadelphia.