#Virtual Classroom Solutions

[nextgensolution]

Next Generation Computers provides smart board solutions that turn traditional classrooms into interactive learning hubs. Perfect for schools aiming to modernize teaching and make learning more immersive and effective.

[simulanissolutions]

The Metaverse is transforming education by enabling immersive, interactive, and engaging learning experiences.  Simulanis, a leader in AR, VR, MR, and Metaverse solutions, is at the forefront of this revolution, developing cutting-edge immersive learning technologies for various industries.

[lmsintmedia]

Top VR Tools for Online Education in 2025: Transforming Learning Like Never Before

Virtual reality (VR) is no longer just a gaming trend—it’s revolutionizing online education! As we step into 2025, VR tools are making learning more immersive, interactive, and engaging. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or institution looking to enhance online learning experiences, these top VR tools are shaping the future of education. Let’s dive into the best options available! 1. Engage…

[classifyr]

Lecture recording software for students

Lecture recording software is a valuable asset for students, providing a convenient way to capture and review class lectures. Whether you're struggling to keep up with notes, want to revisit complex topics, or need to study for exams, these tools can significantly enhance your learning experience.

Key features to look for in lecture recording software:-

Audio and video recording:

Note-taking integration:

Cloud storage:

Sharing options:

By using Classifyr, students can create personalized study plans, review challenging topics, and ultimately enhance their understanding of course material. For more information do visit our official website www.classifyr.in

[globusinfocomlimited]

Unlocking the Power of Education: 11 Benefits of Virtual Classroom

In recent years, technological advancements have revolutionized the traditional education landscape, giving rise to the era of virtual classrooms. These e-learning platforms have become increasingly popular, offering a myriad of benefits that cater to the diverse needs of students and educators alike. As we have entered the digital age, let's explore 11 key advantages of virtual classrooms.

1. Accessibility and Flexibility

Virtual classrooms with learning management software break down geographical barriers, providing students with access to education from anywhere in the world. This accessibility fosters inclusivity and allows learners to pursue their academic goals at their own pace, promoting a flexible and personalized learning experience.

2. Cost-Effective Learning

Traditional education often involves significant expenses related to travel, accommodation, and physical resources. Software for online learning eliminates many of these costs, making education more affordable and accessible to a wider audience. Students can save on commuting expenses and materials, and institutions can streamline their operational costs.

3. Diverse Learning Resources

Virtual classrooms leverage digital technology to offer a diverse range of learning resources, including multimedia presentations, interactive simulations, and online libraries. This wealth of resources caters to various virtual learning styles, enhancing comprehension and engagement among students.

4. Real-time Collaboration

Virtual classrooms facilitate real-time collaboration among students and educators, breaking down the limitations of physical proximity. Through online discussions, group projects, and virtual study sessions, students can connect with peers globally, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

5. Instant Feedback and Assessment

The e-learning platform enables immediate assessment and feedback, allowing students to gauge their understanding of the material instantly. This timely feedback enhances the learning process, enabling students to address misconceptions instantly and make necessary adjustments to their study strategies.

6. Customized Learning Paths

Virtual classrooms empower educators to tailor learning experiences to individual student needs.  Adaptive learning platforms with the best learning management software use data analytics to identify strengths and weaknesses, enabling personalized lesson plans and ensuring that each student receives targeted support.

7. Improved Time Management Skills

Virtual classrooms necessitate self-discipline and time management skills, essential attributes for success in today's fast-paced world. Students learn to organize their schedules, meet deadlines, and balance academic responsibilities, cultivating habits that are valuable in both academic and professional spheres.

8. Environmentally Friendly Education

Online learning management system contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing the need for advanced physical infrastructure, transportation, and paper. The shift to virtual classrooms aligns with global efforts to make education more eco-friendly.

9.  Enhanced Technical Proficiency

Engaging with virtual classrooms equips students with essential digital skills, a requirement in the modern workforce. From navigating the best e-learning platform to utilizing collaborative tools, students develop technological proficiency that prepares them for the demands of the digital age.

10. Global Networking Opportunities

Virtual classrooms connect students with peers and professionals worldwide, fostering a global network of contacts. This interconnectedness expands opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration, exchange programs, and a broader understanding of diverse perspectives.

11. Lifelong Learning and Continuing Education

Virtual classrooms make lifelong learning and continuing education more accessible to individuals of all ages. Whether pursuing advanced degrees, professional certifications, or acquiring new skills, virtual classrooms with a learning management system provide a platform for continuous personal and professional development.

Conclusion

As technology continues to reshape education, virtual classrooms emerge as a powerful tool for transforming the learning experience. The benefits outlined above highlight the potential of online education to make learning more accessible, engaging, and tailored to individual needs. As we embrace the advantages of the best e-learning platform, we pave the way for a more inclusive, dynamic, and technologically driven future of education.

Explore multiple virtual classroom software provider companies in India, “Kaltura, Globus Infocom Limited, edapp, Edulastic, and more. Among these software companies, Globus Infocom is the one that provides comprehensive solutions (along with the feature-rich hardware with software ensuring complete transformation supporting hybrid learning methods in schools/colleges/universities).

[speakersyouneedllc]

Engaging Virtual Classroom Training Solutions

Transform learning experiences with our engaging virtual classroom training solutions, combining flexibility with interactive learning for enhanced skill development. For more information visit our website: https://speakersyouneed.com/

[enfin-technologies-blog]

(via LIVE Virtual Classroom Solutions - Enfin Technologies)

[news4nose]

Not only AI is making learning more personal for students and offering help to teachers, but it’s also bringing some quality ways in education. Like, you can get instant feedback and support whenever you need it. 

But, do you know the challenges that come with it? And, what best practices should be adopted to incorporate AI in classroom education?

[kuldipsir]

In the fast-paced digital era, technology has significantly transformed various aspects of our lives, including the way we learn and educate. One of the most prominent advancements in the field of education is E-Learning, a revolutionary approach that integrates technology to deliver educational content and learning experiences. This article delves into the world of E-Learning for schools, exploring its benefits, challenges, and how it has shaped the landscape of modern education. You will also be able to download Presentation on E-Learning for Schools: Revolutionizing Education in the Digital Age.

[pjsk-story-summaries]

The Courage to Lead, The Kindness in My Heart Event Story Summary

TL;DR: Honami worries about being the only Leo/need member who hasn't answered Director Shindo's question about what she aspires to do with the band's music. Their rehearsal lacks sync as a result, drawing concern from Ichika. The next day, Ichika advises Honami to think about what makes her happy to find her answer. After resolving an argument about a song arrangement between Saki and Rin, Honami realizes her aspiration is to support the other members in any way possible. With all their individual aspirations realized, the band decides their group aspiration is still to move people's hearts with their music.

Shindo accepts Leo/need's aspirations and proceeds with the group's marketing plans. Shindo then asks the group to decide a leader and nominates Honami. The others agree unanimously, specifically citing Honami's strength standing up to Shindo in the past and her ability to keep them together through difficult moments. Honami accepts the leader position with little trepidation.

Right after, the president of the record label asks to hear Leo/need perform live as an audition for a major music festival. While practicing for this performance, the girls realize that despite their strong playing, they still sound out of sync as a band. They come together to determine the sound and theme of each song to play more cohesively, but that results in their individual playing losing power. Shindo tells Honami the solution is for one player to step up and lead the band's sound, a role requiring great technical skill. With their audition a week away, Honami trains one-on-one with Shindo to be able to become that player.

The day of their audition, Leo/need perform at their best for the record company president. Shindo sees that the deep bonds between the members are the group's "secret weapon," as Honami directs the other's powerful playing in one cohesive song. The president considers their performance a success. Shindo then tells them Leo/need has a set debut date. Honami vows to do more than support Leo/need; she will lead the band forward.

Fan translation (Kimane) / Song (Regulus) 2DMV / 3DMV Submitted by @wonderhoy-dump

Chapter 1: Honami is practicing alone in SEKAI when she thinks back to how Shindo asked their band to think about what aspirations they hold for their music. It distresses her that she's the only one without an answer, but then the others arrive for practice.

As they rehearse, the Virtual Singers notice that the girls are playing with extra momentum. Honami wonders if that's because the others have figured out their answers. Shiho calls Honami out for not keeping up in her playing. After practice, Ichika asks Honami if something is messing with her focus but Honami assures her it's just something on her mind.

At Solis Records, the company president approaches Director Shindo, who is working through lunch to prepare for Leo/Need's debut. Shindo tells him Leo/Need is a band with a lot of heart, capable of overcoming any hurdles in their way. The president then presents Shindo with an offer that came across their desk this morning, eliciting great interest from the director.

Chapter 2: Honami didn't sleep well due to overthinking about Shindo's question. Ichika finds her in the classroom, correctly guesses what's been bothering her, and suggests that in order to answer the question, Honami should think about how she finds happiness. Personally, Ichika found her answer after remembering how happy she felt bringing Hanano Yoshizaki and her brother back together in the Live with Memories event, which is why her aspiration is to bring people together through Leo/Need's music. Honami thanks her for the advice.

Arriving in SEKAI for rehearsal, Honami sees Saki and Rin bugging KAITO to choose a side in their argument. Saki is expanding their discography by doing a new arrangement of the song they used to battle Saku, and she wants to use a more energetic chorus for the arrangement, but Rin insists that will give the song a vibe that's too different from the original. Although Honami feels she doesn't know much about songwriting, she suggests Saki think about how she wants the audience to feel after hearing the new arrangement. KAITO and Rin agree, leading Saki to successfully continue on her arrangement.

Seeing Saki so happy as a result of her advice, Honami realizes that's what makes her happy too—and that's what she aspires in this band. The rest of the band arrives as Honami is about to tell them her answer to Shindo's question.

Chapter 3: Honami wants to help everyone in Leo/Need achieve their aspirations: that's her answer. Though she also wants to move audience's hearts with their music, she realized at their solo show that what's most important to her is getting her friends' feelings out into the world.

She's not sure this is an okay goal to have, as the others all seek to work hard for their audience, but MEIKO and the others assure her it's a good answer that suits Honami well. She's been helping others since forever, after all.

Now that they each have their individual aspirations, their last goal is to understand Leo/Need's aspiration as a band. Though their answers sound like they're all over the place, Miku points out they all stem from a desire to move people's hearts with their music—something they've known for a long time. They decide on that as their true aspiration to tell Shindo.

Chapter 4: Shindo finds their aspirations and collective goal fitting for Leo/Need. Moving forward, the band will now need a leader to handle corporate and media matters, but decide where the band is headed and, in the case of a crisis, they will need a strong leader to keep the band together. Shindo nominates Honami to be the leader, based on her desire to support the band with whatever she has.

Honami is surprised by the suggestion, but Ichika and Saki recall Honami's bravery when she stood up to Shindo in the Little Bravers event, where she asserted their desire as a band is to move people's hearts. Shiho agrees that moment and Honami's every step has kept their band moving forward and votes for her to lead them. Honami is moved but wonders if that moment alone is proof of her leadership abilities in the future. Shindo adds that though many young bands have fragile foundations, Honami's words back then convinced him back then that Leo/Need could handle anything that came their way, leading him to sign them to Solis Records.

With the support of the whole band, Honami agrees to to become the leader because that's what she wants to do.

The president of Solis Records, Mr. Ota, then enters and requests to hear Leo/Need perform live as an audition for a major upcoming music festival. Honami accepts the request.

Chapter 5: Leo/Need begin practicing for the festival audition in SEKAI. They all sound confident and motivated in their playing, but the Virtual Singers also notice that they're slightly out of sync. Honami thought this problem would have been resolved now that she's found her answer, but Miku points out that them each finding individual aspirations may have led them to prioritize different sounds in their playing, as opposed to playing as a cohesive whole. They decide they need to picture one unified sound together as they play each song.

Chapter 6: Leo/need spend time going over their songs and coming to agreements about the theme of each song and how to alter their playing to achieve it. Afterwards, they practice one of the songs they discussed. But although they are listening to each other better and matching the song's theme, they still sound off. Later at home, Honami realizes that now that they're compensating for each other, they've lost the power in their sound they had from before. She is brooding over how to solve this when Shindo calls her.

Chapter 7: Shindo tells Honami Mr. Ota wants to see them play live next weekend, leading Honami to tell him about their band's issues. Shindo says the solution is simple: someone needs to lead the band while they're playing. Like a director of an orchestra, someone needs to understand each song, know each member's playing, and drive the song forward to maximize both capabilities. Honami wants to do this for Leo/Need. Shindo warns her this role requires a high-level of technical skill and offers to do one-on-one training with her.

At the training studio, Shindo tells Honami he's dabbled in instruments before, then plays a drum roll that very clearly shows he's done more than "dabble" in playing drums. He drives Honami through a series of difficult exercises while reminding her the goal of practice is perfection. Pushing through her exhaustion, Honami strives to improve her capabilities for the band.

Chapter 8: Shindo suggests they stop after Honami develops a blister, but she insists they keep going. Honami has always felt lacking as a musician compared to the others, which she has tried to make up for by managing band logistics, but this training has made her happy at the prospect of finally contributing to the band musically. They continue practice.

Next week, Leo/Need gets ready to perform for the president. The Virtual Singers drop in to check in on the girls, but the members are feeling confident in their performance capabilities, especially Honami. When Shindo and Mr. Ota arrive, Leo/need begin their performance strong. Shindo sees how they've improved, not dramatically, but incrementally, by using the full conviction of their bonds. Despite their inexperience, Leo/need is a band with unbreakable bonds and that, Shindo realizes, is Leo/need's "secret weapon."

While playing, Honami is able to confidently let the others play to their best by relying on her playing to direct their sound. With confidence, Honami realizes that just supporting the band isn't enough; she needs to lead the band, and that's what she will do.

Mr. Ota is impressed with Leo/need's sound and tells them he will keep them in mind for the music festival. Shindo then tells the girls Leo/need has an official debut date. Thrilled with the others, Honami vows to lead the band forward.

[nextgensolution]

At Next Generation Computers, we help schools bring learning to life with advanced smart whiteboards. Designed to support interactive teaching, our whiteboards make lessons more engaging and collaborative for both teachers and students. Easy to use and built for modern classrooms, these solutions are perfect for enhancing everyday learning.

[noideabutsims]

 [Exciting Announcement! 🎉] Donut Co.'s Pre-School Play Set is ALMOST HERE!

Hey Simmers! We know you've been patiently waiting (and we've been sweating) over this massive project... but the wait is ALMOST OVER! Donut Co. is thrilled to give you a sneak peek of the creative explosion that's about to hit your Sims' worlds:

🍩 Donut Co.'s Dream-Build-Play Blocks: Unleash your little Sim's inner architect with this colossal collection of colorful, kid-safe foam blocks. Build towering castles, sprawling towns, or anything their imagination can dream up!

🚗 Build-Your-World Rugs - Explore With Me Edition: Take playtime to the next level with these nostalgic, detailed town rugs. Watch as your Sims embark on epic adventures, cruising through bustling streets and discovering hidden corners.

✨ Little Ones Reading Time Rugs: Make story time extra special with these vibrant and durable rugs, designed to spark imagination and foster a love of learning.

About The Set: Hold onto your hats, Simmers, because Donut Co. is about to revolutionize playtime in your virtual worlds! Introducing the Dream-Build-Play Blocks – a mind-blowing collection of 24 unique block creations that will transform your Sims' homes into vibrant wonderlands of fun and imagination.

Picture this: towering playhouses bursting with color, adorable dollhouses begging to be explored, and stacks of nesting blocks just waiting to be built into towering masterpieces. Your little Sims will squeal with delight as they dive into a world of endless possibilities!

But wait, there's more! We've sprinkled in a rainbow of vibrant hues, a playful nod to Pride Month and a guaranteed way to make your Sims' spaces pop! Toddlers will giggle with glee as they tumble through block tunnels, children will create sprawling cities, and even your adult Sims will be tempted to join in on the fun.

And don't forget those oh-so-cozy reading nooks! Our Little Ones Reading Time Rugs now come in "classroom clean" and "playtime messy" versions, perfect for sparking a love of learning or simply adding a touch of realism to your Sims' homes. Plus, our Explore With Me rugs will transport your little ones to a world of imaginative play, with their charming towns and winding roads.

This set is a Simmer's dream come true, with endless options for customization and play. Whether you're building a bustling metropolis or a cozy corner for quiet time, the Dream-Build-Play Blocks are sure to inspire hours of fun for Sims of all ages.

So what are you waiting for? Unleash your inner child, let your creativity run wild, and give your Sims the playtime they deserve with Donut Co.'s Dream-Build-Play Blocks!

Behind the Scenes:

This project was a labor of love that faced its fair share of challenges. We dealt with so many snags, for a moment we didn't know if this set would be finished or released at all. But a HUGE thank you goes out to @taurusdesign for all the help they have given with this project. They are the only reason this set is able to be released, as they were able to help me fix all the meshing issue and the shadows. From technical hiccups to design dilemmas, we've poured our hearts (and a few tears) into bringing you the best possible experience. But trust us, it's been worth every minute, and the finished product is just around the corner! Truth about shadows: There is one small issue that is noticed, that I can not find a solution for. There are some shadows before placing a few of the objects, but they disappear as soon as the objects are actually placed (Pictured below). I am not sure how to fix this, so this may end up in the final project, unless someone has an idea in which case please let me know! <3

Get Ready to Play!

Stay tuned for the official launch date – it's coming VERY soon! In the meantime, start dreaming up the amazing creations your Sims will build with these new additions.

Thank You!

We couldn't have made it to this point without your unwavering support and enthusiasm. Your patience throughout this journey means the world to us. So, from the bottom of our sim-loving hearts, THANK YOU! We can't wait to see the amazing creations your Sims will build with these new additions.

Stay Tuned for the Big Day! 💖🍩

[guillotinesandroses]

The Edge of Reality; Monica + Female Reader

Familiar places float by, morphing into different ones. This classroom may be virtual, or it may be real. The lines blurred a long while ago, when you lost control of all that was your own. Her hands hold the strings, fingers writing the code of this world. 

"Would you like some tea?" Your girlfriend's voice snaps you out of your thoughts. She sets down a silver tray with a soft smile. "I made some cupcakes as well. They're not as good as Natsuki's... but I have all the time in the world to practice, don't I?" 

Your lips remain sealed. Still you accept the teacup, blowing gently to cool the drink down. Monica's smile takes on a sad twist as she sits down. 

"I wish you'd talk to me again. I understand why you're upset... but this was the only way we could be together. If there was another way, I would have taken it, I promise. Merging the worlds came at a price... I couldn't have known it would be this. It's a bit much to ask, but I hope you'll understand." 

You sip from the cup, holding many retorts at the tip of your tongue. The tea burns but you drink it down anyway. With your new form, you are barely human in this new shared reality. These worlds, virtual and real, were merged together indeed. Had the consequences not been so disastrous, you would have marveled at the results. 

Such technology is far more than impressive. It is terrifying as well, of course, but ever the nerd, you would have been asking her all sorts of questions. How did she do it, how did it feel to gain consciousness for the first time, how does she feel about the two worlds- so many interesting talks could have been had. Perhaps you could have even fallen for her as she wishes you would. However, with the current circumstances, that could never happen- at least not in the innocent way she wanted the events to unveil. 

"People do crazy things when they're in love, don't they?" Her smile strains, but it stays on her lips nonetheless. In spite of all her apologies, she gained everything she wanted. The club members were barely a sacrifice, since they were not alive. Not a single thing in Monica's world was alive aside from her. 

Yours is alive- was alive- from each tiny plankton to every person walking the Earth. The selfishness of one individual wiped all of it clean, strangers and your loved ones alike. You frown as you set your teacup down onto its plate. If only you never downloaded that sketchy game. Monica reaches out the rest her hand over yours. 

"Just remember that I love you, okay? I'll wait as long as you wish for me to. Anything you ask from me will be yours." 

A while ago you would have killed to have someone utter such sweet words to you. The person would have barely even mattered. Coming from her, however, they taste like poison. 

All you had wanted was to play a silly dating simulator to get your thoughts away from your bleak life. In spite of how cliche you thought the saying was before, you cannot help but agree that a person never truly appreciates a good enough until it disappears. Although the world was a bore, it was your own, and it still made sense. You had your mundane problems, complicated relationships and the ongoing struggle for money. In this void, you struggle to hold onto a sense of time, to a sense of sanity. 

At first you thought of this as a bad dream. Everything seemed so bizarre, surely you were merely sleep deprived and hallucinating. Months have flown by now, yet this corrupt world remains. 

Some days a sense of guilt shrouds your heart. She loves you unabashed, with a full heart. Monica has the time to wait; both of you have grown immortal due to her tampering with the mathematical workings of time. You could never hope to understand how she has done what she did, risen from a sentient artificial intelligence to something akin to an all-powerful god. She forgives you as if your love for her is an inevitability. 

You are the solution to her equation of happiness, to put it in her terms. The worst part is that you know she is right. A human being is all that you are. The silence has worn you down. Soon you will break, even if only to curse her name. 

Monica will look past it. She does show genuine guilt; she will comfort you and apologize. However, inside she will see this change as progress. Human beings have never been stagnant. Even if you try to fight the change in your mind, your body will adapt. 

Your energy will soon run out. When that happens, your brain will adjust and produce different chemicals. Actively rejecting an idea does nothing when the body chooses survival. Seeking comfort, it will latch onto the one person it can. Although you know and dread this fact, you choose to reject Monica, the destroyer of these worlds, to the bitter end. 

You wonder when that will come, the tragic end for the last shreds of your autonomy. On other days you wonder what it would be like to give up the fight. All of your efforts are, in the end, useless after all. Even her vast power cannot bring back the past. With the world gone, what else is there even left to do but to love her? 

[mariacallous]

This bruising presidential election is finally over, and it has taken a toll on our country and all of us in it. In particular, our youth have witnessed growing polarization and political vitriol, and they were already in a bad way, facing unprecedented levels of mental health problems. Schools have a major role to play in supporting them as we move forward. One way they can do this, and contribute to strengthening our democracy, is to engage students in civic reasoning and discourse at school.

The National Academy of Education defines civic reasoning and discourse as the rigorous examination of evidence and multiple perspectives around meaningful personal and societal issues to seek consensus or compromise on the issues through discussion and debate. These are essential capacities youth must develop to sustain a functioning and equitable democratic society, and so should be among the central aims of education—now more than ever. Additionally, new research shows that, because it is at once cognitively difficult and deeply emotionally powerful, engaging in civic reasoning supports healthy brain development in adolescents, which in turn predicts life satisfaction and achievement in young adulthood.

But what does civic reasoning and discourse look like in classrooms? One example is when a group of eighth graders in New York City and another in rural Virginia come together through writing letters and virtual meet-ups. As they learn about each other’s daily lives, they begin to see how “blue” and “red” communities in this country are similar and how they are different. By the end of the unit, they have read common texts and critically explored their perspectives on a topic that is important to them, such as gun rights.

Another example is when high school math students in Los Angeles apply statistical methods to a social issue they’ve identified, such as income and wealth distribution. They analyze trends over time and look at variables such as geographic location and workers’ rights laws in different states, as well as people’s education levels, gender, race and ethnicity. They present and debate what they find, which leads to deeper discussions about the values and intentions behind policies.

Aside from the academic and social skills students are building through this work, why are these classroom experiences so formative and essential for students? Civic reasoning develops youths’ abilities to think about the broader and longer-term implications of situations and issues. Such reasoning helps students think about multiple perspectives on issues and to wrestle with the complexity of real-world situations. And it does so in a way that feels deeply personally meaningful to youth. Civic reasoning, in other words, relies on what we are calling “transcendent” thinking—thinking that moves students to transcend current circumstances and specifics to search for deeper understanding, personal relevance, and possible solutions.

At the USC Center for Affective Neuroscience, Development, Learning and Education (CANDLE) we are showing that transcendent thinking also shapes brain development in beneficial ways. In a five-year study published in Scientific Reports, we interviewed 65 diverse high school students about their reactions to true stories of teens’ compelling situations around the world. We also scanned the students’ brains that day, and again two years later, and followed the students into young adulthood. The more the students reflected on the bigger civic issues at stake–that is, the more they demonstrated transcendent thinking and reported being strongly emotionally engaged–the more the students had grown their brains when they returned for the second scan. In turn, those students who grew their brains more, from the first to the second neuroimaging scan, showed stronger identity development in their late teen years, measured as the degree to which a teen reported that they think about who they are and what they stand for, and about the kind of adult they would like to become. As young adults, they reported better life satisfaction, relationships, and achievement. Importantly, the results of our study were not related to IQ, socio-economic status, gender, or ethnic background.

This brain growth likely happens because, as teens reflect on civic issues, they coordinate brain systems involved in focused attention and planning, memory, emotion, and reflection—the same brain networks involved in creativity and out-of-the-box thinking, learning, self-awareness, self-control, and ethical judgment. Notably, the patterns of brain growth identified seem to be the opposite of patterns associated in recent clinical research with adolescents’ development of mood disorders, depression, and anxiety. This may also be why the students’ transcendent thinking in our study helped to protect their brains against the negative impacts of witnessing neighborhood violence and crime. Ultimately, transcendent thinking for the teen brain may be like physical exercise for the body: The more they do it, the more they strengthen their social and cognitive skills, which also produces a myriad of collateral benefits.

With such clear benefits to our teens and to our civic landscape, we owe it to ourselves, to our youth, and to our country, to build more opportunities for civic reasoning and discourse into America’s schools. You may be thinking that our culture wars have already overtaken school board meetings and that “the other side” would never go for this. But everyone wants their voice to be heard, and their identities and experiences to be understood and valued. Our youth desperately want this too, and schools can help them share, empathize, and learn across their differences while critically examining issues that matter to them and to our collective future. Even if we can’t imagine ourselves having these conversations right now as adults, this is our time to step back from the brink–to let our youth think transcendently and take on the conversations that will secure the future of our democracy.

[narrans]

My Borrowed Son | 14 | Parker's Place

Chapter Fourteen | Parker’s Place

For the past three years, Parker had been a completely virtual student on a medical conditional pass signed off on by his pediatrician and his mom.

His first day of school was a terrifying one. Parker’s mom had set up a special classroom area with a camera for him to be seen as well as a computer for him to watch the lectures on. Perhaps it was because it was a private school versus a public school, but Parker felt like he was just like any other student.

Mr. William Tamplin was a great teacher and he always made sure everyone was seen and heard if they had questions. He was a curious man with black rimmed glasses that reminded Parker of the ones Clark Kent would wear. He had sandy blond-brown hair, like Parker, but he had pale blue eyes like glacier ice. He was a young teacher, but he knew the answer to everything, even though he usually taught English.

Parker’s other teachers were nice, but they weren’t the same as Mr. Tamplin.

On that first day, Mr. Tamplin had Parker introduce himself and talk a little about what he liked and what he wanted to learn. All of the other teachers had Parker do the same thing as the camera and screen that represented him was shown to the class.

Parker had never seen so many children his age before, and he was both excited and terrified. When he was in Mr. Tamplin’s class, however, he felt safe, especially when it came to questions about why Parker couldn’t come to class. That was another thing Parker liked about Mr. Tamplin. He, unlike the other teachers, didn’t request that Parker explain anything about his condition.

Parker and his mom went over the details in depth every day to make sure Parker didn’t say too much. For whatever reason, Parker’s mom seemed uneasy about Parker sharing the name of his condition and details about it. It was weird, but the small child figured that it was such a rare condition that not much was known about it and that he wouldn’t be able to answer the questions he would receive.

“So, Parker, if anyone asks…”

“I know, mom. I just say that I have a special medical condition that is still being explored. It’s not contagious, but it just makes me a little fragile, so I have to stay put at home until we find a better solution,” recited Parker.

It was the same thing he told everyone in his classes and to his teachers.

There were a few who asked further questions when he was in private group study sessions or if they had free chat time and one of the kids came up and decided to talk to Parker, but Parker’s responses were always the same, and so the topics were changed.

Through his fall and spring of his first year, Parker made several friends. There was Bailey, a black haired girl who loved to draw, and Billie, a kid who couldn’t hold still to save his life. The three of them were fast friends because of their love of the same cartoons and, with Amanda’s permission, the three of them had phone calls and video chats outside of school hours.

Neither of them seemed interested in Parker’s condition and, for them, it was cool having a virtual friend. Sometimes, they even called Parker “the spaceman,” pretending he was in some kind of protected facility that was doing research on Mars or whatever.

In the end, it didn’t matter. They had continued to be friends all through his classes, even as he excelled in nearly all of his subjects and jumped grades. Parker was good at making friends and learned quickly how to socialize without bringing up his special circumstances and condition.

Now, for the first time, he was getting an actual birthday party.

True, it was still virtual for all of his friends to log in, but it was going to be the greatest thing ever!

“Hey, mom? I know it’s a little early, but could I go ahead and log into Discord?” asked Parker as he tapped on the mouse. He was so close, tantalizingly so, to spending a great afternoon with his friends. The mouse danced across the screen over the camera image, highlighting it every time it traced over the icon.

Amanda approached and looked at the camera and its placement in Parker’s room. It looked like everything was set up to avoid showing too much about him and his room. The thought of someone seeing Parker for the size he was felt close – too close, but she wanted to give Parker this birthday.

He was thirteen after all.

She thought of the gifts she had prepared for him and hoped she was doing the right thing with it.

Years passed and now he was officially a teenager.

The time really had gone by so fast.

“Sure,” she replied after a moment. “I don’t see why not. If you have any problems with the program or camera, just let me know. And remember…”

“About my condition and what we talked about. I remember mom. Thanks!” Parker clicked on the camera icon so fast that it made Amanda’s head spin. She carefully tiptoed away and listened as Parker began calling out to his friends.

The moment his mom gave the go-ahead, Parker saw that Billie and Bailey were already online and ready for him. He eagerly entered the “Parker’s Party” channel he created and watched as his friends’ faces flickered onto the screen.

“Hey spaceman!” greeted Billie. He leaned forward so his nose was blown out of proportion. The grin he had on his face was absolutely priceless.

“Sup man! How’ve you been?” asked Parker as he leaned back in his chair and stared at the camera at his friends.

“Hey! What about me?” asked Bailey. She was dressed in a pretty pink dress and folded her arms in a full body pout.

“Hey there to you too Bailey,” Parker said with a wave. “You guys are the first online. Any word from Spencer or Selina?”

“No, not yet.” Billie’s connection garbled his response but cleared up shortly after. “But you know them. Twins dude. They’ll be online together or never.”

“I hear ya on that,” Parker replied. Just then, Spencer and Selina’s icons popped into the chat followed shortly by ten other friends Parker invited.

The chat and the cameras were filled with cheering and kids talking over one another, creating jumbled connections and amusing breaks in conversation. Games began of Among Us, Speed Racer, and a few other odd ones that Parker was able to access on his device.

After games and other discussions of the fun, nerdy things they were watching or reading, they took a break to sing happy birthday and open the cards they all made for Parker. Because of his condition, Parker requested that his friends make cards for him that they could send to him later.

They were all hilarious.

Parker was rolling on the ground laughing, as was everyone else, and they decided to have an impromptu competition for whose card was the best.

Selina won, naturally. Her sketching abilities were unparalleled, and her use of humor was worthy of the Sunday funnies. The image was Parker in a spacesuit hovering over planets with Mars in the background. It looked like he was outside of some big space station and the caption read, “Comet me, bro!” and underneath read, “I wanted to have a space-themed birthday party, but there was no one to planet. Happy Birthday Parker!” What really caught Parker’s eye was the little heart next to Selina’s name.

“Wow, Selina. That one is fantastic,” Parker complemented.

“Awww! Thanks Parker! Thanks guys!” said Selina with a wink. For whatever reason, Parker felt his heart flutter and his insides flip when he was Selina staring directly into the camera right at him. It was like she was right there looking into his eyes. “Only the best for my bestie.”

“What!” Billie roared. “He’s my bestie!”

“Uh, I talked to him first, so he’s my bestie,” retorted Bailey.

“Can’t you all be my besties?” asked Parker, recovering

Hours passed and, eventually, everyone was called away for dinner or some other activity. Parker waved his hand and wished his friends a great day, and all wished him a happy birthday.

Finally, it was just Bailey and Selina left.

“Well, Parker, I hope you had a great birthday,” said Bailey. “And don’t worry! I’ll be sending you my card A.S.A.P!”

“Yeah, same here,” chimed in Selina. The look the two of them gave one another made Parker’s hair stand on end. It was like there was some unspoken rivalry between the two of them that, for one reason or another, involved him. Parker wasn’t sure really what was going on, but he didn’t want to get in the middle of it.

There was that instinct in him to back away slowly and hide under something big and tall, but Parker held his ground and swallowed his apprehension, addressing his friends

“Well, I can’t wait to get them,” said Parker. He stared into the faces of his friends for a little while longer before Bailey’s mom could be heard in the background calling for her. She huffed dramatically and leaned forward.

“You’ll be getting mine first, so message me as soon as you get it, okay? Talk to you soon Parker! Bye!” said Bailey as she disconnected. Parker looked back at Selina, now realizing she was staring right at him. Her cheeks were a little rosy and the light hit her eyes in a way that made Parker’s insides flip.

He swallowed dryly, but Selina spoke first.

“I’ll be sending mine first, but I wanted to ask if it’s okay if I post it on my Tumblr account before I do. I wanted it to just be for you, but it would be good for my portfolio. I’m applying to the Visual Arts program and want to get some traction,” Selina requested. Parker nodded, but a curiosity tugged at his mind.

“Sure, I don’t have a problem with that, but what’s Tumblr?” asked Parker.

“What? I’m surprised you don’t have one for your writing and everything,” Selina replied. “It’s just a place online for you to submit your stories, poetry, art, and all of that stuff. You should totally make one! I’ll be your first follower!”

Parker hadn’t really thought about publishing his scribblings. Mr. Tamplin was always complementary of his work, encouraging him to do more, and his other writing teachers and tutors said he had a gift for the written word.

Maybe it was worth a shot.

At the very least, it would give him a chance to make more friends.

“Sure. I mean, I have to double check with my mom and everything, but I’ll send you the link if I get one. Sound good?”

“Great! Well, I’ll talk to you soon! Bye Parker!”

The connection was cut and, once again, Parker was left alone in his room, his camera being the only one facing him. He stared at the lens and at his own reflection in the shaped glass. He wasn’t sure why, but it made him feel the slightest bit lonely.

Despite having friends and being online with them for hours, it didn’t change the fact that he was still completely and utterly alone.

“Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you.”

Parker turned around to see his mom approaching with a cake with two tiny candles labeled “1” and “3” on top. It was his favorite, a strawberry cake, and he stepped out of his room to the bedside table to greet her.

“Thanks, mom,” smiled Parker as he gazed up at her. She balanced his cake, which was about as big as his torso, on the tips of her fingers as she smiled at him.

“You’re so welcome,” she said, her adoration clearly audible. “Now, you know the rule. Take a big breath and make a wish.”

She held up her phone camera and hit record. Parker took a few deep breaths, unsure of what to wish for, and stared at the melting wax as it dripped down the edge of the candle.

What did he want?

What was his desire?

He had friends and time at school. He had technology and knick knacks as well as all of the books he could possibly want.

The only thing he would really want was to actually go outside and play with his friends, but that wasn’t possible. It was too dangerous for him, as his mother explained on numerous occasions.

Parker knew the wax wasn’t dripping any slower so, without a wish ready and writing himself a rain check, he blew out the candles.

“Yay! Happy birthday, sweetie,” Amanda said as she set Parker’s cake over onto the small table she brought with her. “Now, do you want cake or presents first?” Parker knew the answer already and, leaving his momentary sadness behind, he decided to enjoy the day rather than be brought down.

“Presents please,” he said as he stepped onto his mom’s awaiting hand. His mom’s smile broadened.

“I hoped you would say that. I hope you don’t mind, but I’m going to start with the biggest one first. Otherwise, the others aren’t going to make sense,” said Amanda. She carefully stood and walked out of the bedroom and toward her office.

Parker leaned forward to look down over the edge of his mom’s hand at the vast distance below him. Something about the height was enticing and thrilling to him. It made his mom anxious anytime he was near the edge, but something inside him said that he could fall and be fine.

“Okay, I really hope you like it, but do not feel pressured into liking it,” said his mom. Parker felt confused as he looked away from the ground and toward the table by the side of the room. Immediately, his mind went blank as he looked at the thing on the table.

It was a miniature house.

It was made of pale blue panels and even had light brown shingles and white trim on the windows and doors. From what Parker could tell, there was nothing on the inside except for a few wrapped presents. It was three stories tall and had a little porch area with a gazebo.

He honestly wasn’t sure what to make of it until his mom asked, “Do… you like it?”

Parker, still unsure, gestured to the front door and his mom carefully set him down. The miniscule boy stepped up onto the porch, noticing how the steps were perfectly set for him. There was a wooden sign on the door that caught his attention immediately, adding to his swirling emotions.

“Parker’s Place”

He reached out and pushed the door open, noting the hinges were just like the ones on the big doors, just smaller.

When he entered the main area, he spotted a set of stairs on the left hand side as well as two entryways leading to two rooms. The rooms themselves were massive, to the point where Parker could run from one side to the other, spin around, and stretch without fear of hitting anything around him.

The outside world shifted as the house spun effortlessly around and the far wall opened up into two separate panels. His mom knelt down and watched him intently as he walked over to the right and into the kitchen. There was a box which had a bit of a hum to it and, when Parker opened it, the air was cold.

Parker, fascinated, turned on his heel and ran into the next room, seeing some old looking wallpaper and several large windows that led to the gazebo.

He needed to see more.

Adrenaline and curiosity fueled him as he sprinted up the stairs, each fitting him perfectly, as he found three new rooms with large windows all around. Still, there was another set of stairs. Parker glanced into the other rooms and found what looked like a miniature bathroom and what could be a bedroom before running upstairs to the top floors. Parker didn’t even mind that he ran past a stack of presents to continue his exploring.

There were two smaller rooms with a narrow entryway to get in, but it was still a massive space.

Now practically at eye-level with his mom, he turned around and looked into her eyes, his words finally manifesting.

“What… is this?”

“It’s a little house made for you,” she replied. Parker spun around in the space, mind still wrapping around the concept.

“For… people like me? But… how? Why?” Something felt odd about this place; like some kind of trap. Parker couldn’t explain the feeling, but something about this place didn’t quite feel right – like he didn’t quite belong there.

“Yes, something along those lines. Do you remember our conversation the other day about how you’re getting older and… things are going to be changing a bit?” asked his mom. Parker nodded vaguely while his mind processed how perfectly everything about this house fit him and why it didn’t feel right.

“Yes, I remember.”

“Well, you’re getting older now and I think it’s time that you had a larger space to call your own,” said Amanda. “It’ll let you gain a little independence and give you a little more freedom and privacy. You can decorate everything how you’d like, and we can set up the hot and cold water and lights together if you want.”

Parker stared around at the vast space.

Except for his room, he had always been surrounded by things that were immense compared to him. His tablet. The books his mom borrowed from the library. The camera he used for class.

Everything was big…

And now it wasn’t.

Parker finally pinpointed the feeling swirling inside him that overrode the sensation of this place feeling like a weird trap.

Normal.

He had always felt normal, but now the world around him felt like it fit him.

“Parker?” His mom’s voice pulled him back to the moment. “Do… you like it? Remember, you can say no. I just tho-”

“I love it.”

Amanda couldn’t be more relieved. She had been holding her breath the entire time Parker explored the dollhouse she purchased online for him. It was a miracle he didn’t find it sooner, but thankfully she had only had it for a few days. Dragging the package through to her office while Parker was in class was her saving grace.

Now, seeing the smile spreading across his face, it made it all worth it.

Yes, she felt an immense guilt for buying a dollhouse when Parker obviously was a person but keeping him in a shoebox on her bedside table felt wrong now that he was officially a teenager.

“You really like it?” asked Amanda, her voice choking up as she looked into those thoughtful brown orbs belonging to her son.

“Yeah, this place is sweet! I mean, it kinda has a weird smell and will need some stuff, but I’ve got so many cool places to go now! I can have a library and book area over on the gazebo in that side room. Bedroom is above that. Upstairs here is the recording, writing, reading area. I get a kitchen and my own bathroom too?” Parker felt himself geeking out.

“Well, I’m thrilled you like it,” said his mom, wiping her eyes with the heel of her palm. “Anyway, your other presents are related to this place, so I hope you like them.”

Parker could barely contain himself.

He sprinted down the stairs, reveling in how they were perfectly sized just for him, and tore open the presents. Some of them were games he had wanted to buy and the others were gift cards. One gift card was from a place called “Tay Models” that really intrigued him.

“It’s an independent company that makes furniture and accessories for people like you,” replied Amanda. A pang of guilt hit her, but she disguised it behind a smile. Tay Models came up during a search for dollhouse accessories and furniture, but nothing on the website indicated that it was meant for toys and dolls that were Parker’s size.

It was the best solution she could come up with without telling Parker more about the condition she had fabricated to keep him – both of them – safe.

“No way!” Parker was overjoyed and eagerly leapt down out of the house and onto the table to hug his mom’s fingers. “Thanks mom! When can we start working on the water and motors and lights?”

Amanda swallowed hard and nodded. “Today, if you want.”

Parker beamed at her and nodded.

“Yes, please. And… momma… could I sleep in here tonight? Move some of my things in here?” asked Parker. The question made a lump form in Amanda’s throat. This would be the first time Parker would be sleeping in another place instead of right beside her.

It made Amanda feel hollow but also reassured at the same time. She knew it was probably unhealthy to have her son sleeping in the same room within arm’s length of her for the majority of his life, but only now did she feel like she could leave him to his own devices.

Parker was a trustworthy boy, and now he was going to be able to practice his independence at a safe distance.

“Of course, sweetie,” she replied as she turned her hand and Parker leapt on, ready for the next phase of his life.

The rest of the evening was eventful to say the least. Both Amanda and Parker had accidentally soaked themselves while getting the water running in both the kitchen and the bathroom, which was the essential if Parker was going to stay in Parker’s Place.

The two of them had dinner and cake while reading the manual on how to set up the electricity of the house but elected by unanimous vote to work on it tomorrow in favor of watching a double feature before bed.

Parker drifted off to sleep at one point through the movie, leaving his mom to carry him to bed, but woke just long enough to give his mom a kiss goodnight and tuck himself in under his blankets. He stared at the ceiling that, for once, didn’t tower above him.

Things were different, both weird and good, and Parker was excited for the things he was going to get to do with his place.

He drifted into a dream filled sleep of far off adventures and worlds beyond comprehension. When he woke, he hurriedly scribbled down his thoughts and what he remembered about the dream, realizing that it would be an amazing plot for a story.

He suddenly felt like it was a shame to keep all of his ideas to himself. He stared at the countless notebooks that were scattered on the ground and, suddenly, it hit him.

Parker knew what he wanted for his birthday – to be able to publish his ideas.

So, as he stood and stretched, one of his objectives of the day became crystal clear.

He was going to start publishing, just like Selina said, and it was going to start today.

~~~~~^*^*^*^*^~~~~~

Continue

Previous

Beginning