Year 2050: Project Re-Education

Our Society

1. Mental Health and Education
2. Geography of this New Canada
3. Transportation
4. Impact on Education
5. Narrative Accounts:
   1. Teacher -Loraine
   2. Student-Emina
   3. Parent -Amorin

Project Re-Education

“I view the students’ writings as speculative-ontologies. The ‘bodies’ or events activated in speculative writing are ‘real’ as linguistic marks on the page, and the worlds they discuss are also ‘real’ (lived SF situated knowledges) although speculative. The students’ writings exemplify Haraway’s SF and probe questions such as: if our present city is unbearable, how might we craft an alternative world? Once the students presented their speculative cities to each other, and discussed their own writing practices, they posted their writings on telephone poles for other people to read. This was a way of ‘publishing’ their writings and answering back to the ‘real’ city and its inhabitants as probes for further thought” (Truman, 2018 p. 37)

Our Society

Pre-2035, we lived in a society where students and parents essentially ran the educational system wherein, teachers, administration, and superintendents bent the rules to appease parents rather than focusing on developing the life skills that students need.The world we live in now used to be considered as a speculative-ontology where students have every one of their needs met which resulted in a society where they believe they could behave how they want without consequence.

The overarching issue facing education is accountability from students. It's always everyone's fault but the students. This not only hinders their growth, but it makes the profession difficult to navigate. If teachers have to babysit and walk on eggshells around students, then how do students grow?

By the year 2035, the overuse of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in schools has precipitated a gradual but profound societal decline. Initially applauded for its potential to revolutionize education, the pervasive integration of AI and technology into classrooms has led to the erosion of human interactions within the educational experience. As students become increasingly reliant on AI-driven systems for learning, the once vibrant teacher-student dynamic diminishes, giving way to a transactional environment characterized by screen-mediated interactions. This shift not only erodes crucial communication skills and emotional intelligence but also fosters social isolation as genuine human connections are replaced by virtual ones. Moreover, the disproportionate emphasis on technological proficiency exacerbates economic inequalities, leaving behind those unable to access or navigate advanced technology. With critical thinking skills declining and ethical dilemmas surrounding data privacy and algorithmic bias unresolved, society finds itself at a crossroads where the very foundations of democracy, culture, and individual identity are threatened. With students of the 2019-2030 era entering the workforce, it became clear that technology and the abuse of AI had led society down a dark path wherein the world had changed for the worse. Unless decisive action is taken to recalibrate the balance between technology and humanity in education, the societal fabric may unravel further, leaving a starkly different world for future generations.

In the year 2035, decisive action is taken as society finds itself at a crossroads as the repercussions of a technological revolt unfold, prompting stringent government interventions aimed at regulating the pervasive use of technology, notably within the realm of education. The aftermath of widespread technological misuse and abuse has compelled a conservative administration to implement draconian measures, effectively imposing a complete prohibition on the use of technology outside of work or school institutions. This prohibition extends beyond mere restrictions, enforced rigorously by the formidable "Accountability Storm Troopers," charged with identifying and apprehending individuals suspected of infractions such as cheating or improper tech usage within academic environments.

Under this authoritarian regime, those found in violation of the technological restrictions face dire consequences, as they are swiftly transported to what have been colloquially dubbed "traditional schools." These schools are completely devoid of technology and students are forced to return to archaic educational methods relying solely on pencils, paper, and face-to-face interactions. The sharp contrast between the enticing promise of advanced technology and the straightforwardness of “traditional schooling" emphasizes the seriousness of the government's reaction to concerns about technology exceeding its bounds.

As society grapples with the implications of this technological crackdown, questions arise regarding the balance between innovation and regulation, individual liberties, and societal responsibility. The narrative of the "Accountability Storm Troopers" serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the delicate equilibrium between technological progress and its potential pitfalls, while underscoring the enduring importance of accountability and ethical conduct in an increasingly digitized world.

The societal backlash against the perceived erosion of traditional learning values has catalyzed a profound shift in educational policy, resulting in a transition from liberal ideals to a more authoritarian regime. This seismic transformation reflects a collective yearning for a return to foundational principles amidst the relentless march of technological progress. In this new educational landscape, all students are initially granted equitable access to technological resources within the confines of schools, symbolizing a semblance of equality in an increasingly controlled society where consequences are strict and enforced especially among students.

However, this apparent equality disguises a deeper truth: the spectre of authoritarianism looms large, ready to exact swift retribution upon those who dare to misuse or abuse the privileges afforded by technology. For those found culpable of transgressions, the punishment is severe: banishment to "traditional schools” for a whole semester, where the trappings of modernity are conspicuously absent. Stripped of digital comforts, students are thrust into a bygone era, where pencils scratch against paper and face-to-face interaction replaces the digital chaos of social media.

Furthermore, the reach of authoritarianism extends beyond the classroom, forcing parents to be accountable for their children's actions. Parents, too, find themselves liable by governmental control, subject to uncompromising restrictions on the purchase of technology for their children. By compelling families to reassess their priorities and embrace a return to foundational social skills and learning methods.

Amidst the backdrop of these sweeping changes, the future unfolds as a poignant exploration of the tensions inherent in a world teetering on technological advancement. It is a tale of struggle and redemption, of personal accountability pitted against societal values in a world widespread with uncertainty and polarization. As the pendulum swings closer to the extremes, the true cost of progress becomes increasingly apparent, serving as a stark reminder of the delicate equilibrium that governs the intersection of technology, humanity, and societal progress. Through the use of “traditional schools”, students are now forced to take accountability for their learning as they face consequences for misuse of technology such as using TikTok while in class and using artificial intelligence to complete work. Parents are forced to teach their kids values and manners that are built upon and nurtured at school to ensure we create citizens who contribute to society in meaningful ways, rather than the students who find excuses to opt out of learning. While the shift from Liberal to Conservative education has been extreme, it has helped students be more empathic toward each other and society as they view the world through their own eyes rather than through curated timelines and for-you pages on social media.

The shift away from policing phone use and behaviour among students has enabled teachers to redirect their focus entirely toward teaching and guiding students toward achieving their educational goals as they progress through the education system. By relinquishing the burden of constantly monitoring and managing students' technology usage, educators are now able to invest more time and energy into fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment.

With the elimination of the need to constantly intervene in disciplinary matters related to technology, teachers can devote themselves wholeheartedly to their core mission of imparting knowledge and nurturing the intellectual and personal growth of their students. Freed from the constraints of constant surveillance, educators are empowered to engage in more meaningful interactions with their students, providing personalized guidance, feedback, and support tailored to each individual's unique learning needs and aspirations.

This paradigm shift not only allows teachers to reclaim their role as facilitators of learning but also fosters a sense of trust and mutual respect between educators and students. By shifting the focus away from punitive measures towards a more collaborative and supportive approach, teachers can cultivate a positive classroom culture where students feel empowered to take ownership of their learning journey and actively participate in the educational process.

Ultimately, by empowering teachers to prioritize teaching and mentorship over disciplinary duties, the education system can better fulfill its mandate of equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to succeed in an increasingly complex and dynamic world.

Mental Health

The radical shift in society has had an extremely positive impact on the mental health of our students. An increase in the overall mental health has also directly resulted in higher test scores, participation in extracurriculars, and morale among all students in schools. All students appear far more confident as bullying between peers is very minimal and cyber bullying ceases to exist due to the technology prohibition. Reports of eating disorders and people experiencing body conscious issues have also greatly decreased as a result of the technology and subsequent social media ban. In this new society, there is no social media where people can compare themselves to others. There are also no apps such as Facetune which allow people to alter their appearances online, and even if Facetune still existed, there would be nowhere to post these photos as social media ceases to exist. Due to the lack of social media, the ability of people to compare themselves to one another or compete for followers or likes is obsolete and this has all resulted in a greater focus on academics and a societal mental health improvement. Overall, citizens of this society are empowered to find be their authentic selves as no one is pretending to be a character they think is entertaining on mediums such as social media.

Geography of this New Canada

As a result of the new government of 2035 and the prohibition on technology use in our daily lives, communities are embracing the creation of more parks and green spaces. The new framework of society provides families with more opportunities to disconnect from digital distractions and reconnect with each other. These outdoor green spaces offer a respite from the constant buzz of technology, allowing families to engage in leisurely activities and forge meaningful connections in a natural setting. These spaces also foster a sense of community, kids are playing outside and socializing with one another as opposed to hiding behind a screen. Additionally, playgrounds, amusement parks, and waterparks provide safe environments where kids can simply be kids, free from the pressures of technology and adult responsibilities. Whether it's exploring the wonders of nature in a local park, delighting in the thrills of an amusement park, or seeking shelter from the winter chill in indoor play areas, these spaces foster a sense of community and belonging while promoting physical activity and social interaction. With increased investment in community development initiatives, these spaces serve as catalysts for fostering stronger bonds among families and building vibrant, interconnected neighbourhoods for generations to come.

The new conservative government has also brought forth a renewed interest in preserving the natural landscape. As a response to society shifting away from its heavy reliance on technology, and citizens valuing their time in nature more, technology manufacturers and storage facilities have closed, leaving a place to create more green spaces. With reduced production and utilization of technology, the strain on our natural resources has also diminished, paving the way for a more sustainable future wherein our citizens value being in nature. The dilapidated structures of abandoned technology factories have jumpstarted new initiatives to create more parks, hiking trails and green spaces. These once desolate, cold and industrial areas have slowly transformed into vibrant spaces where kids have spaces to be kids again. In 2024, there was an epidemic amongst the retail market, referred to as the “Sephora Kids” wherein packs of ten year old girls tore through Sephora isles looking for Drunk Elephant Bronzing Drops and retinol because they were influenced to buy it from creators on TikTok. These packs of children terrorized employees and consumers alike, traversing through the isles of the makeup store, wasting all of the testors and being verbally abusive to anyone in their path to obtain Summer Fridays lipgloss or any product from Drunk Elephant. As kids of this era were heavily influenced by social media, they blindly followed whatever their influencer icons were doing. Kids no longer had a place nor desire to be kids and play on playgrounds as they were too busy in the isles of Sephora and filming “Get Ready With Me” TikToks. Whereas, since the prohibition of technology as a society we become increasingly more mindful of the impact of our actions on the planet, initiatives aimed at preserving and enhancing our natural surroundings gain traction, ushering in an era of harmony between humanity and the environment. We have also created spaces and desires for kids to simply be kids again.

Transportation

Since the ban on technology, we have seen a shift in interactions between people. Before 2035, people were becoming more apathetic towards each other and often exceptionally cruel. Through the ban on personal devices and technology, people were initially forced to talk to their neighbours and check in with one another. It has become customary to greet one another with a “Good morning” or “How are you?” and as citizens have continued to develop their social skills, many have full blown conversations with random strangers. This ban has drastically changed transportation systems in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. During 2022-2026, we were seeing a rise in hate crime and crime in general. It reached a point where women and children actively avoided transportation systems due to the lack of safety. Now, people take care of one another as they are not absorbed by their personal devices. While the bystander effect still exists slightly, it has become the norm to look out for one another so much that children can ride transportation systems safely as humans are more aware of their surroundings. We have also seen a shift in behaviour, where people do not behave obnoxiously by playing loud music or having loud conversations on their phones.

Impact on Education

The impact on education resulting from the elimination of technology is a shift in educational focus. Teachers are now required to completely redirect their attention towards teaching and guiding their students. This allows them to reclaim their role as facilitators of learning and fosters a positive classroom environment. The prohibition empowers teachers to engage in more meaningful interactions with their students, providing personalized guidance, feedback, and support tailored to each student's learning needs. This enhances the overall quality of education and cultivates a sense of trust and mutual respect between teachers and students. The government's intervention in banning technology enforces accountability and discipline among students, who may face major consequences such as being sent to "traditional schools" without access to technology. Furthermore, it promotes mental well-being by alleviating the pressure to compete on social media platforms, empowering students to focus on their academics and personal growth. In this new society, we have achieved a work-life balance as students and workers alike are forced to complete work by then end of the day in their institutions as they are not able to access technology outside of those buildings. Overall, the adoption of a traditional educational model and strict regulation of technology allow for a balance between technology and humanity. This enables society to create a more supportive, enriching, and equitable educational environment for future generations.

Narrative Accounts

1. 1. Teacher -Loraine

I have been teaching for over 20 years, and saw a big change in our education systems, before, during and after the pandemic. As educators, we thought things would go back to normal after the pandemic. Of course, we didn’t expect this change to happen right away, but we expected things to look up for us.

We lost a lot of good teachers, due to the hardships of teaching online and not being able to get students to engage with us the same way they did when we were in-person. I don’t know what changed… was it the overuse of technology during the pandemic and not taking those training-wheel like supports off? Was it because we were inflating kids' marks, thinking it was equitable due to students not having technology? How do we go back to what our system was? Everyday feels like a battle, almost drowning in the sea of student needs and requests, all while trying to balance parent, administration, and superintendent demands. I really struggled as a young teacher as I saw a shift between pre-pandemic learning and post-pandemic learning. Eventually, new graduation teachers were considered senior teachers as the older educators started retiring early due to the change in job expectations. The overwhelming need to incorporate technology into every aspect of our lessons and classrooms really took a toll on the quality of teaching and learning that was being administered in schools. To this day, we see a big gap in the students' knowledge, social skills and initiative to take their learning into their own hands.

As an educator who experienced teaching and navigating through the uncertainty of the pandemic, I now find myself navigating a new era of uncertainty in education and implementing and adapting to the drastic reforms sweeping through our schools. We went from having to use technology for everything to only being able to use them for certain lessons. It’s as if I was transported to a time during my own schooling where playing a video in class or watching a movie was more of a treat than an everyday occurrence. I feel that we have found a new balance between using technology and textbooks in the classroom.

One of the most notable changes during this new era is the introduction of dedicated instructional time during school hours, a shift away from the traditional model of assigning homework and independent study. This new approach affords me the opportunity to engage with my students directly, delivering content and guiding their learning in real-time. This also allows teachers and students to have a work-life balance as we are only allowed to use technology within the school building. This was a game changer for me as a teacher, as prior to 2035,  I was working until all hours of the night trying to prepare for my classes, but now we only plan and mark during the times where students are working.

As a result of these technological changes, the concept of the flipped classroom has become a cornerstone of our instructional methodology. Class time is now dedicated to interactive discussions and hands-on activities. This innovative approach not only enhances comprehension but also fosters a deeper connection to the material, empowering students to take ownership of their learning and become active participants in their educational journey. I believe this also helps our students with their critical thinking skills as they have the opportunity to enhance those skills in school without the constant technological interruptions of Tiktok and the games they were constantly playing during class prior to this technological ban.

As an educator, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative effects of stricter rules and regulations in the classroom. The implementation of these measures has brought about a significant shift in classroom dynamics, fostering an environment where students are more focused and actively engaged in their learning during instructional time. I have also found that students are physically present when engaging with their peers and teachers, which has dramatically shifted the ways in which teachers and students alike are treated in school settings. Prior to this technology ban, students were actively ignoring their teacher and refusing to engage with their peers, especially if they were not friends outside of the classroom, however, it is now evident that students are finding other ways to make connections beyond social media. One of the most notable aspects of these stricter rules is the zero-tolerance policy towards academic misconduct. This encompasses various forms of cheating, plagiarism, and even the utilization of AI to refrain from completing class work. By taking a firm stance against such behaviour, we are not only upholding the values of integrity and honesty but also instilling in our students the importance of taking initiative for one's learning and being accountable for the work presented, created, and the grades earned by a student. In addition, the implementation of stricter rules serves to level the playing field, ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed based on their merit and effort rather than resorting to unethical practices. It fosters a sense of fairness and equity within the classroom, creating an environment where students feel empowered to excel through their own hard work and dedication. Ultimately, the impact of these regulations extends far beyond the confines of the classroom, shaping the ethical compasses of our students and preparing them to navigate the challenges of the real world with integrity and honesty. As educators, it is our responsibility to not only impart knowledge but also to instill in our students the values and principles that will guide them towards success in all aspects of their lives.

For those students who are sent to "traditional schools" as a consequence of academic misconduct, the experience serves as a valuable lesson in accountability and resilience. Stripped of the technological crutches they once relied upon, these students are forced to rediscover the value of traditional learning methods, cultivating essential skills such as critical thinking and communication.

In contrast, students attending "tech schools" are provided with access to technology within reasonable limits, but are required to complete all assignments and homework during class time under my supervision. By refraining from sharing digital resources outside of class, I emphasize the importance of effective note-taking and active participation in the learning process.

While the transition to these reforms may have posed challenges initially, the long-term benefits are evident. Students who were caught cheating and subsequently sent to "traditional schools" return with a newfound sense of self-sufficiency and motivation, embracing the rules and expectations set forth by the new educational paradigm.

Overall, as a teacher, I am encouraged by the positive changes I see in my students as they navigate the complexities of the educational landscape. By fostering a culture of accountability, integrity, and resilience, these reforms are equipping students with the skills and mindset they need to succeed in an ever-changing world. As I continue to guide and support my students on their educational journey, I am confident that they will emerge as confident, capable, and compassionate individuals, ready to make a positive impact on the world around them.

1. 1. Student-Emina

I'm sitting here, trying to make sense of everything that's happened since my graduation in 2028, and I can't help but feel lost and confused. The world around me has changed so much, and I'm struggling to comprehend it all. I miss the nostalgic feeling of gazing down at my bright phone screen, tapping away on social media apps, forgetting the passing of time as if I were being transported to an alternate universe... a digital universe.

I grew up in a world where technology was omnipresent. Suddenly, the prohibition of technology beyond school grounds was made effective, it almost felt like a death sentence. Depriving students of something that we used and relied on in our everyday lives, is now suddenly forbidden. The Accountability Storm Troopers gave a dreadful presence; it instilled a sense of fear in us all. The slightest suspicion of cheating led to a series of unwarranted consequences: detention, confiscation of our tech devices, and being transported to a traditional education system to be deprived of modern conveniences. Back when I was in school, students and parents seemed to hold all the power in shaping the educational system. It was chaotic, with teachers constantly bending to accommodate everyone's demands. Accountability was virtually nonexistent, and consequences were rare. Then came the era of technology, promising to revolutionize education. But instead, it brought about a decline in critical thinking skills and human connections. We became overly reliant on AI-driven systems, and before we knew it, society was on the brink of collapse. In the present year 2050, the government has imposed a ban on technology outside of educational institutions. It's like a whole other world, where students like me, who grew up with technology as a crutch, are suddenly forced to navigate without it. Whether it was to check the time, text a friend, a quick Google search It was apparent that teachers were thrilled with this change brought into the education system, they didn't have to take up class time focusing on classroom management. Instead, they were able to teach students without disruptions, as parents had to be committed to parenting and not leave it to teachers responsibility to teach mannerisms and life skills at school. In the beginning stages, I couldn’t come to terms with such drastic measures. Why punish an entire generation for the mistakes committed by a few? The pendulum swung too far to the left, with students stomping all over the education system and avoiding accountability for their actions. I used to rely heavily on ChatGPT to help me complete my homework and assignments. It was like having a personal tutor at my fingertips, guiding me through every problem and concept I didn't understand. But now, I feel, unsure of how to even begin tackling my work without its assistance.

The skills that I once thought were crucial in the digital age of the workforce are now considered useless. Critical thinking has been replaced by reliance on AI, and the overuse of ChatGPT has left everyone to lack original thought. What pains me the most about the current reality is the loss of autonomy. Our choices are no longer our own; they're dictated by strict rules and regulations. I struggle to process the notion that I am unable to make decisions freely, as I remind myself that the world used to be much simpler.
I feel like I'm drowning in a sea of uncertainty. Without my tech, I don't feel equipped to succeed or even to understand what's going on around me. My critical thinking skills are practically nonexistent, and I'm struggling to make sense of the new reality I find myself in.

And then there's the invasion of my space. Without my tech, I feel exposed and vulnerable, like my privacy has been stripped away. I miss the days when I could retreat into my little world, free from surveillance and constant distractions. But perhaps the hardest part of all is the loss of freedom. In this new world, choices are no longer mine to make. Instead, they're dictated by a government hell-bent on enforcing its strict rules and regulations.I can't help but wonder if this is what it means to be truly accountable. Is it about following orders without question, or is there more to it than that? And what does it mean for the future of education—and society as a whole? Through all the confusion I bear, one thing becomes apparent to me: the world I once knew is gone, replaced by something entirely foreign and unfamiliar. As I struggle to find my place in this new reality, I can't help but fear what the future holds.

However, I find that somehow hope emerges after hearing the experiences my younger brother faces currently in school. Like he was also apprehensive about the ban on technology outside of school, but his experience has been surprisingly positive. Unlike me, who grew up in a world where technology was omnipresent, my brother was born into a society where the overuse of tech had reached a tipping point. For him, the prohibition of technology beyond school grounds wasn't a death sentence but rather a chance at a different kind of life— that was not attached to their screens but focused on reality. At first, I couldn't comprehend how my brother could adapt so seamlessly to a world devoid of the digital distractions I had grown so accustomed to. But as he shared his experiences with me, I began to see things from a new perspective. For him, the absence of social media increased his connections and face-to-face interactions and genuine human connections. Instead of staring at screens, he spends his free time playing outdoors with friends, exploring nature, and pursuing hobbies that foster creativity and personal growth. Without the constant attachment of technology to lean on, my brother has built on his critical thinking skills and developed a sense of independence and self-reliance that I envy. He tackles challenges head-on, relying on his own intellect and resourcefulness rather than outsourcing his thinking to AI-driven systems like I once did with ChatGPT.

My brother's school experience has been transformed for the better. With fewer disruptions caused by technology-related issues, teachers can devote more time to meaningful instruction and personalized support. Classroom environments are more conducive to learning, fostering a sense of focus and discipline that was sorely lacking in my day.

As I listen to my brother's stories of adventure and discovery in this new world, I can't help but feel a sense of hope amidst the uncertainty. Perhaps the loss of technology isn't a punishment but rather an opportunity for growth and renewal. Maybe, just maybe, there's a silver lining to be found in this brave new world after all.

1. 1. Parent -Amorin

In 2035, as the new educational system takes hold, I find myself grappling with frustration and uncertainty. It wasn't long ago that I relied on iPads and gadgets to calm my little ones, but now, with stringent regulations in place, I'm forced to seek alternative methods to soothe my rambunctious kids. It's a daunting task, to say the least, but amidst the initial resistance, I begin to see a silver lining. This shift in approach prompts me to prioritize teaching essential life skills like accountability and manners, realizing that parenthood is about more than just having children - it's about guiding them towards becoming responsible and empathetic individuals. In this same manner I find myself agreeing more with my kids' teachers and as they do their part at school, educating my little ones, I need to do my part at home, parenting them.

As a parent the years between 2035-2040 were very rough. When I was growing up and in schools, we had a fair amount of access to technology but AI was not released until I had already graduated university. We used our devices and we all had social media but we were not as addicted to technology as the generations which came after us. When I was growing up, we played outside and only when we were teenagers and young adults were glued to our phones and technology. It was very age appropriate. But in the generations which followed us, including the generations of my own children I think we all introduced technology too early into our kids' lives. But if every parent is giving their kids all of this technology, what am I to do? I didn’t want my kids to fall behind so I gave them technology like everyone else, but I see now how negatively technology has impacted my kids and the rest of this generation. In that moment, I did not want to admit that technology was negatively impacting my kids as I was busy with my own career and trying to make ends meet. However, this ruined my kids in the long run as they became apathetic and entitled. When the technology prohibition went into effect in 2035, taking all of the technology my kids were so used to relying on for everything was hard. They were very moody, upset and did not understand why we had to hand over all of our technology. Trying to connect with them and have conversations about school was especially challenging.

Before the educational reforms of 2035, I admit I was guilty of overbearing interference in my children's academic lives. Teachers seemed to bend over backward to accommodate both parents and students, and I often found myself pushing for special treatment to ensure my child's success. But looking back, I see now that my well-intentioned interventions may have done more harm than good, hindering my children's development rather than helping it. Their specialized treatment at school became expected at home and my kids became bratty and entitled, expecting me to entertain them and cater to them as their teachers did in school.

When the strict education reforms first went into effect, in 2035, we all struggled. I mean, we had been so reliant on technology to do most tasks for us for so long. As parents we worried about how our children would adjust in school and worse what would happen if they were sent to a “traditional school” as a punishment. They had been typing everything since basically the first grade, my kids know how to write but most kids don’t write at all. So how would they fare in the setting of a “traditional school”? There were so many uncertainties with the drastic reforms, we basically had to make the changes overnight.

The first six months of the educational reforms were the hardest on both parents and kids. It was definitely an adjustment to not have any technology around to break the silence. Prior to the reforms we were all glued to our phones even when we were home. But when the prohibition on technology went into effect we actually had to almost learn to communicate again as before this my kids would barely speak a full sentence to me each day. Since the ban, we slowly graduated from small talk and manners to full blown discussions. The ban really has done wonder for how close we are as a family and I personally believe that my kids have improved their manners toward others drastically.

My kids did struggle with meeting school expectations though. Due to the educational reform, all of the teachers are using this ‘flipped classroom’ model where they both teach the lesson and give the kids time in class to do work, all in the same day. It was very confusing and a lot for the kids at first. I think we were all really frustrated. One day, my son was caught using AI to help him finish his assignment quicker in class. We begged his teacher to let him off with a warning but she wasn’t having it. She gave him his papers and sent him to the “traditional school” for a whole semester. The first couple of weeks at the “traditional school” was very hard on him, he struggled a lot without technology. But after this, I saw a shift in him like no other, it was like he was a different kid. He was excited to learn and empowered to finish his work at school without needing or wanting technology to bail him out like in the past.

Now, in 2040, I see the positive impacts of the new educational reform firsthand with both of my kids. My children, thankfully, are no longer accustomed to having their every whim catered to, and they now demonstrate a remarkable resilience and self-sufficiency. It's a relief to see them accomplish tasks and overcome challenges on their own, without my constant meddling or the crutch of AI. Though it was difficult to relinquish control at first, I've come to realize the importance of letting teachers do what they do best: teach. And as I focus on my role as a parent and guide at home, I see my children thriving in ways I never imagined. I am so thankful that the education system experienced such a drastic turn, I truly believe it was so beneficial for the kids of this generation.

This transformative journey has brought my family closer together, fostering a renewed sense of purpose and connection. Without the distractions of technology, we rediscover the simple joys of spending quality time together - cooking meals, exploring the outdoors, and simply enjoying each other's company. And as I watch my children grow into confident and resilient individuals, I take pride in knowing that I've played a part in shaping a brighter future for them and generations to come.