I’ve been sitting in detention
since the end of school.
I’ve been sitting in detention
just because I broke a rule.

Throwing meatballs in the lunchroom
wasn’t wise, I fear.
I was aiming at the trash can,
not my teacher’s rear.

Teacher let me know
when you’ll let me go.
Please don’t keep me here all ni-i-ight.
I apologize—
throwing food’s not wise.
Don’t keep me here all night.

I am going to sneak out of detention
if you will not let me go-o-o-o.
I am going to sneak out of detention,
so, teacher, let me go.

Text © Bruce Lansky reprinted from I’ve Been Burping in the Classroom published by Meadowbrook Press. Illustration © Stephen Carpenter. Any copying or use of this poem or illustration without consent is unlawful.

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