The Teacher in Room 220
for Jaci
Not in a hurry. If you
slowed down, walked
her pace, you could breathe
in the spaciousness
that surrounded her.
Once a Green Darner, brilliant
emerald jewel of a dragonfly,
landed on her arm, stayed an eternity,
drinking in
the grace she exuded.
Up one flight, down the hall.
In my mind’s eye, she will always be
upstairs,
in her classroom,
using the grapnel of cyclops and gorgons,
to lure kids into a love of reading
while
the steady thrum of her rock tumbler,
patient, persistent,
smooths out rough edges,
uncovers facets, makes the dull
gleam.
**
Bio: Julie Martin is a Saint Paul based poet and public school teacher. Her poetry has appeared in the Wadena Historical Society Poetry Month Celebration and In Want of Jasmine Online.
Alpha Female Society. 
Julie, Congratulations! This is a lovely poem and it absolutely represents the Jaci we knew and loved. Furthermore, we’re so blessed that our Avery [Wind] had that experience of having Jaci AND you as his teacher at Barton.❤
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This poem is very moving and knowing both you and Jaci, makes it extra meaningful! I can see her gracefuly walking down the hall with her kids.
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