Three locals share at-home office setups.

Nora Walsh

• Chemistry teacher, F.J. Reitz High School
• Working remotely since March 16

I find it takes me much longer to get things done at home than it does at work. Teachers thrive off the dynamic in their classrooms, and the biggest challenge of e-learning is not having that energy and interchange. We miss our kids.

I teach high school, and I love the conversations I get to have with them about their lives. But also, teaching virtually causes you to lose out on questions and interactions that increase the depth of knowledge.

Necessity is the mother of invention! I’ve been saying for years I wished I had time to explore the variety of online resources so I could incorporate them into my classroom more — well, now’s the time. So my advice: reach out. Go on social media, follow some hashtags, and let other people lift you up. We’re all in this together, even though we have to be apart. 

Heather McKinney

• Writing and social media specialist, Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library
• Working remotely since March 16

I am really lucky to have a dedicated workspace at home. I have a desk with my laptop, and I’m able to really focus on my work for the day. I also love getting to work next to my dog Rupert.

I have really enjoyed the challenge of working from home. There’s a lot of positives and there are a lot of hurdles, but overall I feel really lucky to be able to continue to bring resources to the community.

I still collaborate with my co-workers, we still communicate regularly, and we are working to bring services and materials to our community.

For anyone else working from home, I would say to make yourself a schedule. Write down the tasks and goals you have for the day. Then set a time limit for everything on your list and start.

Noah Stubbs

• Director of communications, City of Evansville Mayor’s Office
• Working remotely since March 23

I’ve been asked to be flexible. I’m a hybrid essential worker. My mornings start from home, responding to emails and calls. Laptop, cell phones, cat, cold brew — it’s all sprawled out on my bed or couch and coffee table. I usually have music and a podcast playing throughout my apartment.

During my lunch hours, I’ve been volunteering with some of our local relief efforts as my schedule allows. I’ve been a utility player, jumping into any role.

In addition to my normal responsibilities, I’ve been fielding calls from the public alongside our administration staff. Mayor Winnecke asked me to jump on conference calls on his behalf when he is on another call or in a meeting.

We’re working smart and hard every day to bring calm and positivity to our residents. Stay cool. Stay positive.