Team number registration is open but looks a little different than in past seasons; purchasers of a team number will be required to assign a Team Manager (TM) to that team number and the TM background check will need to be completed through DIHQ (a change from MIDI handling background checks last season). Once the check is complete and approved, the TM will get access to the Challenge materials. ALL CHALLENGES AND PROGRAM MATERIALS are written in such a way that teams can start participating in the DI Season via completely virtual meetings.
DIHQ is finishing up the process of writing hybrid Challenges that will allow for the presentations to be handled virtually. Therefore, the season will be starting later than normal with the release of 4 challenges on November 1st and the remaining 2 on December 1st. Rising Stars will also be released on November 1st. The regular previews for Technical, Scientific, Fine Arts, Service Learning, and Early Learning Challenges have been released on the national site here. (Improv and Engineering to be announced soon)
Upon MIDI’s discussion with DIHQ to confirm what information is in the FAQ's on the national website (https://www.destinationimagination.org/challenge-program/2020-21-faq/), ALL Central Challenges are to be presented virtually. There are to be NO in-person Challenge performances. Instant Challenges will be written to be presented either in-person or virtually. We plan to have clarification on this as we learn more.
The MICA Board is soon meeting to determine how DI will be implemented in Michigan during the 2020-21 Season. As soon as decisions are made, they will be communicated to all DI Program Coordinators and shared on our website.
We are living in an ever-changing environment where we all need to be flexible. The Michigan Creativity Association Board of Directors is working hard to adapt our programming this season to keep in line with any COVID-related orders while still allowing for the most impactful team experience. Please know that our top priority is keeping our participants, volunteers, and supporters safe!!
We sincerely thank you all for your dedication to our creative programming and for your patience as we maneuver these new circumstances. As DI-ers, we are nothing if not flexible and innovative, so we look forward to seeing how we can creatively adapt to the times and allow our bright Michigan students to showcase their creativity, regardless of what "challenges" are thrown their way.
As always, let me know if you have any questions, concerns, or feedback.
Ted Grossnickle, Affiliate Director
Michigan Creativity Association
Director@MIcreativity.org