I enjoyed myself in grade school, there was so much to do,
I learned to read and write things down and solve math problems, too.
I've kept on learning right along, my teachers were just great,
Now I wonder what's ahead of me as I complete grade eight.

They call it "high school" and, I hope, there are new things to explore,
I'll have more choices in the coming year than I've ever had before.
And what about a building change as I look down the line,
Some say that it feels really strange, but I think I'll be just fine.

I'll be asked to look at strategies to develop my career,
I haven't thought a lot about this; right now it's not too clear.

Do I want to be a welder or a builder or a broker,
Well, I want a job that's good for me, not one that's mediocre.
Maybe fix TVs, invent recipes or work with little kids,
or be a vet, teach the alphabet, or speak on the Pyramids.
Be an engineer or a financier or a job in the military,
or even be in politics (now that's a little scary).

I'm told I'll have a lot of help as I work toward my goal,
I know I'll need direction and a measure of self control.
But there are tests to take and friends to make and teachers to help me out,
And counselors and administrators who'll care for me; no doubt!

So I guess I can relax a bit as I think about high school,
I'm a little nervous, I'll admit, but worrying's not cool.
And when I've graduated and completed my twelfth grade,
And I'm congratulated and I've joined the next parade,
I'll think about this high school time and the challenge it has been,
And maybe wish that I was back to enjoy these years again.

– Kurt L. Haney, Chairperson Counselor,
Henry Ford II High School