The Replaced Sign

Ages 12-15

Maidy stops outside the reorganized classroom.

Her old name marker is gone from the door. In its place, a plain sign names the whole class.

Beside the doorframe, the old markers lie in a shallow basket. Maidy finds hers, with its bent attachment loop.

She lifts it toward the new sign.

The old loop will not reach the fastening.

Inside, classmates are taking their bags to their assigned places. Maidy's own space is still beside the window.

She lowers the marker.

A classmate passes through the doorway. Maidy steps aside, then follows her in.

At her place, she sets down her bag. The little shelf beside it has enough room for the marker.

She straightens its bent loop but does not use it.

The marker rests against her bag, with her name facing the room.