Take a difficult job and make it much harder
That's what elementary teaching in the pandemic does
To break down even the most dedicated teachers
Impossibly tasked with protecting everyone around them
The reality always there before becomes intolerable
The administration not really supportive of the teachers
The parents on the whole not much concerned for the staff
The union leadership usually ineffective and collaborating
And yet the best do as always the best that they can
Modeling good behavior for their students and each other
Teaching right from wrong and encouraging fair play
Along with the essential academic skills and information
There are classrooms that are truly an inspiration
Calling attention to slavery and its aftermath today
Presenting the indigenous history and viewpoint
Explaining the science of what is causing climate change
Anyone who has put themselves out there teaching this
Contending with reactionary parents and curriculum demands
And all the pressures to be silent and go along
May hold their head up high proud of what they have done
