Michael McNamara

Ridgefield High School Orchestra Director

Hometown: Ridgefield, CT

What have you been doing during this time? I’ve been trying to hold it together as much as possible.  I have two little kids at home, and my wife is teaching remotely during afternoons and evenings.  We’ve been tag teaming the mornings so I can teach my classes and/or get work done.  Then I get caught up at night after the kids go to bed.  School is way more intense now with distance learning, trying to find a balance of relevant and meaningful work without burdening my students.  We try to spend the afternoons outside.  I landscaped all of my beds, and I decided to build a garden.  Of course I can’t do anything easily, so I’ve turned it into a minor construction project.  Not being a handy person, I’ve had to watch a lot of YouTube videos on how to do it.  I’ve picked up some skills along the way though!  I’ve also been able to practice music and read more regularly.  

What are your personal highlights and lowlights of this time? Highlights:  It’s been great to learn new skills, both as a homeowner and as a teacher.  I have become a lot more proficient at audio/video editing, using YouTube and technology in the classroom.  I’ve definitely picked up a few things that we can use technology for even when school returns to normalcy.  I’ve also enjoyed having more times with my kids in the afternoons.  Lowlights:  My heart is broken and I miss my students.  Even though we are all doing the best we can, this is NOT the way education operates at its best.  Kids need to interact with each other to learn; it’s a collaborative process.  ESPECIALLY when it comes to making music together.  I think I might shed a tear or two the first time I get to conduct an ensemble again.  

Are there any changes or introductions you’ve made to your life that you plan to hang on to once ‘normalcy’ resumes?  I think I gained some confidence in certain handyman work, and I feel courageous enough to step outside my comfort zone and learn how to do something if I need it done.  I also like the fact I am practicing and reading more, but I have had difficulty fitting it into a routine.  I think I would want to continue that and figure out a way to schedule it in.  

If you had to describe this time in one word – what word would it be?  Frustrating.