by Tracy McPartland - EIAA Co-Executive Director
How are you? How are you weathering this storm? How are you staying connected while staying apart?
I don’t know about you, but if I were to play the game “Never have I ever……” I would have so many things to finish that phrase that have happened in just the last four weeks!! Each day brings something new, different and unexpected. I am generally a very optimistic person but I am having moments of intense concern, fear and sadness surrounding all things COVID-19. I know that I am definitely mourning the loss of connection that can only be felt by being in the same physical space as others. Don’t get me wrong – I am so grateful to live in a time of unbelievable technology that allows us to see the faces of our co-workers, friends and family, but nothing takes the place of being able to be in the same place with those we love. I need to do some work to feel ready to live this virtual life for the foreseeable future.
All of that being said, I am so proud of my co-workers for all that they have done to stay connected with our EIAA family. There are lots of fun things happening on our social media platforms: Kids from the Rock Band Program are offering glimpses into the practice they are continuing by sharing videos; others are sharing art they are creating at home; the Rock Bands are continuing virtual group practice with their instructors each week; and our adult Coffee and Art Club is meeting virtually each week.
We have also been working hard to transfer to online learning opportunities that will roll out through our website, social media and through the Cedar Rapids Community School District on May 4, 2020. EIAA teachers are busy making fun, interactive virtual offerings to help keep students engaged in learning and creativity for the remainder of the school year – especially now that Governor Reynolds has announced that students will not be returning to the classroom for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year.
Thank you for being part of the EIAA family. We miss you and can’t wait until we are all able to see your smiling faces - in person! Until that happens, please join us virtually and keep in touch with us to let us know how you are doing and what is catching your interest while you shelter in place. Share your music with us. Share your art with us. Share your creative writing with us. Let’s all keep connected and let our connections and the arts support us and carry us through these strange times.
Stay safe, stay healthy and stay home!! See you in the virtual space,