The students of Sunnydale High didn't completely ignore the events happening around them. They've awarded Buffy as the Class Protector for all the good she's done for them.
Xander: I can't wait to see Cordelia. I can't believe I can't wait to see Cordelia. Willow: I wonder what our first homework assignment is gonna be. [He raises his eyebrows] Willow: Hey, you're excited over Cordelia, okay? We've all got issues.
Buffy: Hey Ken, wanna see my impression of Gandhi? [Buffy bashes his head with a weapon] Lily: Gandhi? Buffy: Well, you know, if he was really pissed off.