From Russia with Lunch — Bruce Hale

Inventions, spells, and bullies--oh my!

It all begins when Chet's favorite teacher is fired, only to be replaced by the mechanical invention of Dr. Tanya Lightov--a mysterious Russian scientist.
Suddenly, the school seems possessed by forces that are upsetting the natural order of things: Kindergartners are beating up sixth graders; teachers' pets are talking back; and worst of all, Chet's faithful partner and best friend, Natalie Attired, has abandoned him in his hour of need.
Will Chet be able to restore his friendship with Natalie and bring Emerson Hicky back to normal? One thing's for certain: The crazy, mixed-up mastermind behind this case will be the last creature anyone expects.