School year ending as full summer approaches

Students leap and cry for joy

freed from the responsibilities of learning

Not really for the summer is full

of adventures and learning, just not formal

Teachers don’t share the exuberance

except with quiet nods and thoughts of peace

While they address the records

of student performances, of materials to be cataloged

plans for the next year come before vacation

Emotional batteries on their last legs

spending all to complete the year for the students

They are the focus for which teachers give their last

Rarely receiving thanks or positive emotions in response

willingly given none-the-less

But summer begins without the excitement others have

Education has drained them of the energy to care,

to intervene and encourage

The worry about success and encouragement

and growth to be shepherded, takes all

A break is needed – to rest and recover

It need not be a physical break

Just something different with the potential

to fill the emotional reservoir

bringing back joy and smiles to share once again.