Turner is Elwood's friend at Nickel Academy. He is a pragmatist focused on survival, providing a foil to Elwood's idealism. Turner ultimately collaborates with Elwood on a plan to expose the corrupt system.

Harriet is Elwood’s grandmother and caretaker. She has faced much heartbreak and is cautious about civil rights activism, teaching Elwood the importance of navigating a White-dominated society prudently.

Mr. Hill is Elwood’s high school history teacher. He recognizes Elwood’s potential and encourages his involvement in the Civil Rights movement and early enrollment in college.

Spencer is the sadistic White superintendent of Nickel Academy, effectively running the facility. He employs terror and violence to control the boys for the profit of the local economy.

Harper is a White staff member at Nickel who initially shows kindness, but is deeply involved in Nickel's corrupt system. He ultimately betrays Elwood and Turner.

Chickie Pete is a former Nickel boy shown as an adult, struggling with the trauma endured at the academy. His inability to recall Elwood and Turner's escape underscores the lasting impact of Nickel's abuse.