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Where's the BIG GUY?By Jim Paprocki |
Jim Paprocki retired in June 1998 from his teaching job at Valley View Elementary School in Ashwaubenon.
At the elementary school
the little kids pray
I hope the "BIG GUY"
is here today.
Because when he is
in his special way
he helps them learn
and guides their play.
He's a port in a storm,
a confidante,
he's there to deliver
what little hearts want
Especially
When the good life's "not"
What it's cracked up to be
Then the little kids can shout,
"Hey BIG GUY
save a hand for ME!"
Kids flock around
and grab for his hand
the BIG GUY smiles...
he's at their command
As they walk and talk
kids tug at his coat
the closest ones
strut and gloat
when the BIG GUY laughs
at their little kid stories
about little kid victories
and momentary glories
and planning a family trip out West
being chosen first
Ace-ing a test
Or
When the BIG GUY sighs
at little kids' pains
and becomes a sponge
for their heartsick rains
Like losing a grandma
being sick all weekend
getting a lousy report card
being hurt by a friend
Yes
The BIG GUY tosses footballs
and soothes hard feelings
he's a master negotiator
at real life dealings.
The BIG GUY is
the school kid's prize
because he's down to earth
to be their size---
and the kids in his care
ALL REALIZE
he's one of the best things
school money buys!
He's a port in a storm,
a confidante,
he's there to deliver
what little hearts want
Especially
When the good life's "not"
What it's cracked up to be
Then the little kids can shout,
"Hey BIG GUY save a hand for ME!"
Yes
He's read them poems
and he's taught them math
Yet, he's the subject of
stereotypical wrath
Also
There's gender discrimination,
salary disparity
and "THAT QEO"
will make him a rarity
So
Be careful folks
He's getting sore---
He might become
Elementary Ed.'s dinosaur
Then, in the future---
when the little kids SHOUT,
"Where's the BIG GUY?"
He'll be out.
Posted September 4, 1998
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