It would be rather fun for a change, Millicent mused, getting her books out of her locker in the hall, rather exciting to be part of a closely knit group, the exclusive set at Lansing High. Of course, it wasn't a school organization. In fact, the principal, Mr. Cranton, wanted to do away with initiation week altogether, because he thought it was undemocratic and disturbed the routine of school work. But there wasn't really anything he could do about it. Sure, the girls had to come to school for five days without any lipstick on and without curling their hair, and of course everybody noticed them, but what could the teachers do?
The author most likely included the information about the principal’s and teachers’ reactions in order to
provide context and foreshadow potential conflicts that may arise in the story. The author wants to establish the tension between the exclusive set at Lansing High and the authority figures within the school. This sets the stage for potential conflicts between the students and the administration as the story progresses, adding intrigue and uncertainty to the plot.
highlight the defiance and exclusivity of the closely knit group at Lansing High. By mentioning that the principal, Mr. Cranton, wanted to do away with initiation week because he believed it was undemocratic and disrupted school work, the author is showing that the group's activities are not officially sanctioned by the school. This adds to the sense of excitement and rebellion that the group members feel, as they continue to engage in their initiation week activities despite the disapproval of the school administration. The mention of the teachers noticing the girls who are participating in initiation week without wearing lipstick or curling their hair suggests that the group's actions are disruptive enough to attract attention, but the teachers are ultimately powerless to do anything about it. This further emphasizes the exclusive nature and defiance of the group.
highlight the contrast between the exclusive group of students and the school authority's disapproval of initiation week. This detail helps to further develop the theme of rebellion and nonconformity within the story.
To answer your question more directly, the author likely included this information to emphasize the idea that the exclusive set at Lansing High is disruptive to the routine and democratic nature of the school. By highlighting the principal's desire to do away with initiation week and the teachers' inability to intervene, it suggests that the group has a certain level of power and influence within the school.
Additionally, this detail also adds to the anticipation and excitement felt by Millicent and the other girls in the exclusive set. The fact that they are knowingly breaking school rules and drawing attention to themselves creates a sense of thrill and enjoyment.
In summary, the inclusion of the principal's and teachers' reactions serves to contrast the exclusive group's behavior with the school authority's disapproval, further reinforcing the theme of rebellion and emphasizing the excitement of being part of this closely knit group.