Back to School

Where I grew up, in Westchester County, New York, school began after Labor Day (otherwise known as the day we put away the white pants).  As a consequence, I've always associated autumn with the start of the academic year.  Crisp morning air, stiff blue jeans, the crunch of fallen leaves, and the smell of new school supplies... it came as a package deal. 

Since becoming a parent, however, the first day of school has sneaked up on me every single year.  This is not because the fashion rules have changed regarding white pants.  It's because in both Sydney and Florida, school starts in summertime (January and August respectively) when the livin' is supposed to be easy if I am to believe George Gershwin.  Rudely awakened from my warm weather reveries, I am flung back into reality against my better judgment.

But enough about me-- I am determined not to make this post a nostalgic grown-up's whinge fest.  Instead, today's little ditty is about the enthusiasm of a child returning to school after summer break, meeting a teacher for the first time, and wondering what the new year has in store.  Knowing that whatever it is, it is bound to be great fun.

Advice for my new teacher

Today’s the day

before the day

before the day

school starts!

It’s almost here,

the time of year

to show off all

my smarts.

I met my brand new teacher

(she seems very, very nice)

and told her she can come to me

for lots of good advice.

And when she does

(I know she will),

this is what I’ll say:

The grown ups think

we’re here to learn,

but kids?

We want to play!

© 2013 Michelle Heidenrich Barnes.  All rights reserved.

Now pack your school bag, grab your lunch, and hurry on over to Steps and Staircases, where Lisa has today's Poetry Friday roundup.  See you next time!