TRAFALGAR, Ind. — As much as every national, state and city leader would like, there is no magic eight ball holding all the answers on how long school shutdowns, social distancing, restaurant restrictions and large events must be modified or canceled due to trying to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Indiana FFA members are currently trying to learn how to adjust to a new normal, not only in doing their schoolwork from home, as all Indiana schools will be closed until at least May 1, but also staying involved with FFA and their career and leadership development events, despite not being able to attend face-to-face practices or competitions.
Members of the 2019-2020 Indiana FFA state officer team, who also are adjusting to change as they are currently living at home instead of at the FFA officer house located at the Indiana FFA Leadership Center, recently shared some advice for Hoosier FFA members to keep in mind during these trying times.
“Don’t let all the negative stuff going on get you down. When I’m feeling down, I remember why I joined FFA, which helps me push through.”
Taylor Roy
Reporter
“It’s an unfortunate situation and there are about 273 school districts in Indiana doing e-learning. It is definitely important to get your schoolwork done and get out of the house by going for a walk down the street or working with livestock to help avoid getting the cabin fever feeling.”
Nathan Fairchild
Southern region vice president
“I encourage members to find the silver lining in the situation, which can be hard to do. If members have access to their Supervised Agricultural Experience, they can work on them. If they raise rabbits, then they can spend the time disinfecting all the cages. If their SAE involves row crops, they can think how they can better their operation in the coming season. Members need to look at every situation with a positive light.”
Dillon Muhlenkamp
President
“Social distancing is really necessary and needed right now. We have a huge advantage with technology at our fingertips. We can call or text people and send encouraging messages.”
Caitlyn Lewis
Secretary
