by Janice D. Soderling

“New Jersey school district proposes banning students with lunch debt from field trips, prom”
—The Hill

Sorry kid, you shoulda picked
some other mom and dad,
who pay their bills, who don’t get sick
or get laid off. Too bad.

Sorry kid, we have to shame
to teach a tough-love lesson.
Cash is king. Life ain’t no game
or free delicatessen.

Sorry kid, you’re also banned
from field trips and the prom.
Next time show up with cash in hand
and pick a better dad and mom.