Alaina Hammond

Classroom 6
 
I sit in front, my hand in splint 
And watch three women as they write
Today, I barely can. 
If they so need, I’ll give a hint 
But now our mouths are all clasped tight 
We strictly heed to plan.

I try to see my other hand: 
A teacher’s work at times is great,
So strive for that reward.
This room is windowless and bland 
Besides my name, the class, the date
No words adorn the board.

“Then focus on next week,” I think.
“Use this slow time to best prepare.”
A good idea! I can’t.
Just sip my quickly-cooling drink
Attempt to better brush my hair 
Despite my finger’s slant.

And then, thank god, at twenty past
When I am just about to scream 
One student beckons me.
Her question’s good. I answer fast
Enthusiastic as I seem 
And happy as can be.

Alaina Hammond is a poet, playwright, fiction writer, and visual artist. @alainaheidelberger on Instagram.