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.