Creating Classrooms Where Everyone Belongs
For Parker Lay, teaching is about more than lessons and learning, it’s about creating a classroom where all students feel safe, seen, and valued. Originally from Whiting, Indiana, Parker is heading to Ball State University with a plan to dual major in Early Childhood Education and Special Education.
“My main drive is to give a safe and welcoming space to learn for children of all abilities, backgrounds, and cultures,” Parker shares.
Parker is also a recipient of the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, a renewable scholarship that awards up to $10,000 annually for four years to high-achieving students who commit to teaching in Indiana for five years after graduation.
Finding Confidence Through Creativity
Parker’s high school experience was full of collaborative and creative spaces, many of which were driven by storytelling and imagination. They were involved in Portage Thespians, two Dungeons & Dragons groups (“Damage Inc.” and “Dice and Determination”), and the Harrison Gamers club.
These activities fostered community, creativity, and leadership, traits Parker will carry into their future classroom.
Why Ball State? A Place That Feels Like Home
When choosing a university, Parker was drawn to Ball State for its hands-on learning, inclusive culture, and supportive environment. “Ball State understands the importance of on-field experiences,” they explain. “And it felt like the safest university for me to attend as a queer individual.”
They’re especially excited to connect with classmates who share their passion. “I’m looking forward to meeting people both similar and different from me, and to be around people with the same passion as me.”
Writing Worlds, Building Dreams
Parker describes themselves as a “writing nerd,” a title they wear proudly.
“I love world building, making characters, writing poems—you name it, I’ve probably made it at some point.”
When they’re not creating stories, Parker enjoys video games, naps, and exploring their ever-growing collection of 147 Spotify playlists.
A Future of Inclusive, Empowered Learning
With a heart for inclusion and a mind full of creativity, Parker is ready to build classrooms that reflect the diverse, dynamic world we live in, starting right here in Indiana.
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