How are you feeling today, Amal?
This feels like the principal’s office
except it isn’t
the plaque on her desk says she’s the
SUPERINTENDENT OF JUVENILE
PROBATION AND DETENTION
and her name is Cheryl-Ann Buford
I keep my mouth shut, head down
Okay, thenI want you to know that you’re not
any different from the other boys who come
through my officeQuiet, scared, nervous
I get it and I’m here for you
she says
White lady with her
hair pulled up, dark-red lipstick, gold earrings
This is your programIt’s like a class schedule
You have the option of taking classes for credit
and receiving your high school diploma or
wasting time, not doing anything to improve your skills
while you’re in hereIt’s your choice
just like all the other choices you had
but if you abstain from going to class
you have to stay in your cell for the entire day
so I say, I’ll take the classes
Good, excellent choice, Amal
She gives me a handbook
Read every single word, every single page
Don’t worry, you have all the time you need
If you have any questions, let me know
We’re here to help you, Amal
I don’t believe she can really help me