before i grade

before i grade, let me ask
who’s keys are these?

who decided to entrust my
holey pockets
with such important instruments of access

before i grade, let me ask
who’s kids are these?

who decided to send them to this class where they’re asked
what’s up
and expected to give an answer

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before i grade, let me ask
who’s pens are these?

i like the felt tipped ones the best
even though
they bleed through onto unmarked papers beneath

before i grade, let me ask
where is my teacher?

the one who will let me know how to
best handle
adolescent esteems attitudes abilities and sleep patterns

before i grade, let me ask
who’s time is this?

i’d have to think i could
spend it
doing something more worthwhile