Final answer:
August's mom means that August's behavior or characteristics are similar to those of his parents. She says this to emphasize that children often inherit certain traits from their parents.
Step-by-step explanation:
When August's mom says, 'I guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree,' she means that August's behavior or characteristics are similar to those of his parents. This expression is often used to suggest that children often inherit certain traits or qualities from their parents.
In the context of the story, August and his mom are discussing his experiences at school, and August's mom is pointing out that his behavior might be influenced by the behavior of his parents. She is implying that August's actions are similar to those of his parents.
Therefore, August's mom says this because she believes that August's behavior is a reflection of who he is and the values he has learned from his family.