LEARN WITH ORJAMES LAB: The OrJames Lab is pleased to provide a wonderful series of mini courses for all members of the life-long learning community! These courses are designed for adults who want to keep the mind stimulated and engaged through a series of lectures, discussions, readings and other learning tools.

Introduction to Italian Literature and Civilization and love stories begins Oct. 1, while Ancient Drama begins Oct. 6.

All courses will be held online via Zoom. Reading materials will all be provided online except where otherwise indicated. Payments can be made via PayPal. Feel free to contact Orin James if there are any questions: 814-366-7354 or orin.james@gmail.com

For full course descriptions, dates, fees, and times please visit the following link: https://orinjames.com/onlinecourses.htm.

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PANDEMIC EDUCATION: Parents are concerned about what students lost or missed out on during 2020’s distance learning.

Brainly, the world’s largest online learning platform, conducted a survey of 3,000 parents and found the following:

— 55% are concerned about how their child will adjust to returning to the class room for in-person learning

— 55% are worried about the impact of the previous year’s education on their student’s progress

— 47% remain concerned that their child’s social and emotional development will be impacted

For most parents, the concerns for the new year include managing student anxiety, keeping the family healthy and how transportation will go for students this year.

Bullying and financial woes are also topping the list of concerns, although those are not pandemic-specific worries.

For the 3,000 high and middle school students surveyed, the return to school brought mixed reactions: 66% of students reported that they felt anxious about the upcoming school year, while 63% reported that they felt excited. Meanwhile, 40% reported that they feel that they are not prepared for the school year.