Junior
Diesel engines run as yellow busses unload cargo.
The first day of school has arrived-
it's sixth grade for this one.
Thick fabric binder clutched like a teddy bear,
a new pair of hightop Chucks providing all support,
she gets her combination right on the second try.
A bell rings; announcements are delivered through a loudspeaker.
The school's floors are buffed,
she's freshly showered,
and middle school is a chance to
start over.