The impact of the storm and COVID has proved to us we can overcome obstacles as a community by working together.
Mike Manderscheid is in his second year as Activities Director for MISD, but has worked for the district for 24 years in positions ranging from teaching kindergarten to junior high math and science. When asked what he likes best about his job he responded that, “I get the chance to work with all of the students at MHS who are involved in activities, as well as the opportunity to work with some of the best coaches and directors in the state. I love my job and the challenges that it brings on a daily basis. Helping our athletic teams, performing arts, and clubs continue to grow, improve, and strive for excellence in competing and representing MISD and MHS in a positive way is exciting and rewarding.”
Both COVID and storm damage have impacted athletics at Marion. Although the district has implemented mitigation strategies to help our teams and performing arts navigate with the COVID, damage to the Red Gym in the high school and the football/track complex has led to some creative problem solving in 2020. “The damage to our facilities sustained and the mitigation requirements have taught us to be flexible, cooperative, and creative all at the same time. Our coaches and directors have gone above and beyond in working together to keep not only their program moving forward, but also encouraging and reaching out to help ensure that other programs have their needs met.” Vernon and Linn-Mar have assisted with space for football and volleyball games while Marion facilities are under repair.
When asked about what sets 2020 apart from other years Mike responded, “The loss of spring seasons has taught us to cherish each time you get to participate or perform in an activity that you love and enjoy. I have seen more smiles on the faces of our athletes and performers. Smiles of excitement and simply enjoyment of the activity with the knowledge of this could stop tomorrow based on someone testing positive. Our volleyball and football teams were forced to call another facility home for a year. Both teams did an excellent job of embracing the situation knowing the importance was that they were getting a chance to play and compete.” We truly appreciate the resilience demonstrated by students and staff this year.
This article is part of a larger article that will be shared in the Winter 2020 Edition of the Marion Independent School Foundation and Alumni Association Newsletter. If you are interested in receiving our newsletter by mail, please contact us at MarionFoundation@marion-isd.org.