an apple for the teacher

you rarely hear teachers

talking

about how fulfilling their jobs

are. how rewarding

it is

to see children grow

and learn

and become

knowledgeable in whatever

subject

being taught.

no one gets an apple

anymore.

it's tests, it's scores, it's

quotas, it's unruly

students,

administrative

issues,

grades.

and angry parents knocking

at the door.