THOMAS WORTHINGTON
HIGH SCHOOL
MARCHING BAND
“Pride of Cardinal
Country”
STUDENT HANDBOOK
2015
@TWHS_Bands
www.twhsbands.org
2
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................................................. 5
I. DESCRIPTIONS – STUDENTS’ ROLES....................................................................................................................... 6
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
Band Member .......................................................................................................................................................... 6
Drum Major ............................................................................................................................................................ 6
Quartermasters ......................................................................................................................................................... 6
Squad/Section Leader ................................................................................................................................................ 6
Shared Spot/Position ................................................................................................................................................. 6
Manager ................................................................................................................................................................ 6
Esprit de Corps ......................................................................................................................................................... 6
II. ELIGIBILITY ................................................................................................................................................................... 6
III. FORMS............................................................................................................................................................................. 7
IV. STUDENT BEHAVIOR .................................................................................................................................................. 7
A. Code of Conduct ....................................................................................................................................................... 7
B. Minimum Behavior Expectations.................................................................................................................................... 7
V. ATTENDANCE POLICIES ............................................................................................................................................. 7
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
Procedure for missing a rehearsal or performance due to illness ................................................................................................ 7
Rehearsals .............................................................................................................................................................. 7
Mini-Camp, Pre-Band Camp and Band Camp ................................................................................................................... 8
Performances ........................................................................................................................................................... 8
Requirements for Excused Absences ................................................................................................................................. 8
VI. TARDINESS POLICIES ................................................................................................................................................ 8
VII. FOOTBALL SEASON ................................................................................................................................................... 8
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
Band Stand Conduct .................................................................................................................................................. 8
Third Quarter Procedure ............................................................................................................................................. 9
Bus Conduct ............................................................................................................................................................ 9
Important ---Important- Bus Excuses -Important ---Important .............................................................................................. 9
Instrument Transportation and Care ............................................................................................................................. 10
Music Checks/Work Checks ........................................................................................................................................ 10
VIII. REHEARSAL AND PERFORMANCE CONDUCT .............................................................................................. 10
A. Guidelines ............................................................................................................................................................ 10
B. Daily Requirements for Marching Band ......................................................................................................................... 11
IX. HOW TO MEMORIZE MUSIC AND COLOR GUARD ROUTINE ...................................................................... 11
X. CLUB-W .......................................................................................................................................................................... 11
XI. MERITS ......................................................................................................................................................................... 12
XII. UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS................................................................................................................................... 12
XIII. FINANCIAL................................................................................................................................................................ 13
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
Cardinal Pride Fee .................................................................................................................................................. 13
Uniform Fee .......................................................................................................................................................... 13
Personal Items and Additional Costs.............................................................................................................................. 13
Participation Fee .................................................................................................................................................... 13
Instrument Rental Fee .............................................................................................................................................. 13
Tag Day .............................................................................................................................................................. 13
XIV. USE OF BAND ROOM FACILITIES ...................................................................................................................... 14
XV. INSTRUMENT CHECK-OUT FORMS .................................................................................................................... 14
3
4
Introduction
The purpose of this handbook is to inform you of policies and procedures of the Thomas
Worthington High School Marching Band. Also included are descriptions of performance and
leadership opportunities as well as the roles and responsibilities of TWHS marching band
members and marching band member parents. All should take time to read and understand this
handbook to ensure the smooth operation of the Thomas Worthington High School Marching
Band. Please sign the contract (found on page 15), and return it to Mr. Scoles or Mr. Doolittle.
Keep the rest of the handbook for future reference.
Derek Scoles and Eric Doolittle
TWHS Band Directors
5
I. Descriptions – Students’ Roles
A. Band Member
A “Pride of Cardinal Country” Band Member is a student who has, by choice, committed and dedicated himself/herself to the objectives of
the Marching Band. A Band Member should always strive to become a successful part of the band and help others achieve this same
objective. A Band Member participates through wind instruments, percussion, color guard, conducting, and other manners.
B. Drum Major
A Drum Major, because of their position, should serve as role models to all members of the band. In many instances, his/her standards
must be set higher to achieve the goals of leadership and respect. Once leadership and respect are achieved, the Drum Major should not
hesitate to assume authority in the absence of the director.
C. Quartermasters
The Quartermasters are Band Members and are primarily responsible for preparation of rehearsal/performance sites (i.e. setting
up/tearing down chairs and stands in the band room). Other responsibilities include any organizational tasks assigned by the directors.
Two Quartermasters are permitted to serve in a given school year.
D. Squad/Section Leader
Squad Leaders are extremely vital to the band’s success. Primary responsibilities include: helping teach the half-time show to members
of their squad/section and being a role model for the squad/section. Squad/Section Leaders are responsible for their entire
squad/section knowing their music and the drill charts. The director selects squad leaders by an interview process, which also includes
the memorization of a selection of music.
E. Shared Spot/Position
A Shared Spot/Position is reserved for students who have not committed themselves to Marching Band by submission of Handbook
Form and Cardinal Pride Fee (to reserve your permanent spot, please submit Handbook Agreement, ATOD and Cardinal Pride Fee
starting May 1. The absolute latest a student can be take on a permanent spot is if materials are submitted by the end of Mini Camp). A
student in a Shared Spot/Position will learn all fundamentals, memorize all music, learn a position in the show, assist with props for the
performance, be ready to take another marcher’s position, and be involved in all trips (football games, pre-game, parades, and special
performance opportunities). A student in this role does everything that other band members and color guard members do except for
marching 100% of the time in the competition show. The show will have been written for a specific number of students. In order to
commission music and drill, an estimate of the number of students in each section and the entire band must be submitted months in
advance. Otherwise, drill maneuvers and music will be received late, creating a “catch up” form of rehearsal. The process would always
put our students in a disadvantage and take away from the overall experience and success of the band. An effort to create a position for
every student that registers for band at band camp would mean that our drill may not be ready until as late as October, leaving only a
few weeks of the season remaining.
F. Manager
A Manager is considered a member of the band. Often 8th graders from Kilbourne MS, Phoenix MS or Worthingway Middle School can
help the marching band during band camp, after-school rehearsals and performances by aiding in the setup of warm-up areas,
performance areas or general support. Managers wear the same uniform as other band members.
G. Esprit de Corps
A group of students, nominated by students and chosen by the directors, to help maintain spirit, morale and a family unity atmosphere.
II. Eligibility
As marching band is an extra-curricular activity and falls under the guidelines of the athletic department, students must be held to
following minimum requirement to participate in The Pride of Cardinal Country.
1.
2.
3.
4.
6
Student must be enrolled in at least five one credit courses or the equivalent, each of which counts toward graduation.
Student must have received passing grades in at least five one credit courses or the equivalent, each of which count toward
graduation during the 4th grading period (summer school will not be counted).
Physical Education credits do not count toward this.
Students must be a participant in curricular bands unless the directors allow an exemption (color guard members are exempt).
It is vital to manage time appropriately and maintain eligibility. As marching band goes beyond the first quarter, students that do not pass
five courses during the first quarter will lose eligibility for the second quarter. This will result in loss of performance opportunities which
includes the last football games, contests and state contests. Ineligibility may also impact extra trips like Disney World, Orlando and will
hurt the band overall.
III. Forms
The Following forms must be completed and submitted to be eligible for participation in marching band:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Emergency Medical (EM) – Updated on Infinite Campus (online during the summer, due by band camp)
Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs (ATOD) – Submitted to Athletic Office, due by band camp
Physical – Submitted to Athletic Office, due by band camp
Student Handbook – Submitted to Band Staff, due by Mini Camp (Lock box near director’s office)
IV. Student Behavior
A. Code of Conduct
The Thomas Worthington High School Marching Band always strives for excellence. It has proudly represented the school and
communities making it up. The following policy has always been and may continue to be STRICTLY ENFORCED while students are
participating in ALL band activities.
Smoking, consumption of alcohol, use of illegal substances or being under the influence of these, stealing, and direct
insubordination are strictly forbidden at all times in accordance with school board policy. Violation of these while
with the band or at band events may result in dismissal from marching band and/or disciplinary action by an
administrator.
Use of profanity is not allowed at any time. Violation of this may result in severe disciplinary action by the director and/or
administrators.
Students are expected to follow the guidelines and expectations of the Thomas Worthington Student Handbook
(school handbook) at all times while on school grounds or traveling with the band.
B. Minimum Behavior Expectations
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Treat all members, chaperones and staff with respect
Profanity or insubordination will not be tolerated at any time
Each member is responsible for having all equipment and other necessary items at all events (instrument in good repair, drill
books, music, pencils, etc.) Likewise, at the end of any event, each member is responsible for returning equipment to its
proper place and leaving the area as clean as it was on arrival.
Be punctual and in your designated area at all times. It is necessary to arrive at school at least ten minutes prior to the
scheduled starting time in order to ready “on time.”
Public display of affection is not appropriate at any time during rehearsal or performance.
V. Attendance Policies
A. Procedure for missing a rehearsal or performance due to illness
Absences at rehearsal and performances affect the entire band. With advanced notice, the band director can often make changes or
adjust plans to accommodate an absence, minimizing the negative impact on the other students. Therefore, absences must be
reported with a phone call to (614) 450-6279/(614) 450-6283 or email to
[email protected]/[email protected]. Reporting an absence does not necessarily mean the absence will be counted as
“excused”
B. Rehearsals
The only excuses for missing rehearsals are as follows: family emergency, personal illness, or extenuating circumstances deemed by Mr.
Scoles, Mr. Doolittle, or a Thomas Worthington Administrator. Any unexcused absences from rehearsals may result in one or more of
the following:
1.
Demerit
7
2.
3.
4.
Loss of performance opportunities
Removal from leadership responsibilities
Dismissal from band.
C. Mini-Camp, Pre-Band Camp and Band Camp
Attendance at mini-camp, band camp, and post-band camp rehearsals are mandatory. These rehearsals are crucial to the band’s success
at football games and marching band contests. Failure to attend these rehearsals may result in the prevention of future leadership roles.
Dates for these rehearsals are announced months in advance since they change on a yearly basis.
D. Performances
All band members are required to attend all band performances. The only excused for missing performances are as follows: family
emergency, personal illness or extenuating circumstances* as deemed by Mr. Scoles, Mr. Doolittle, or a Thomas Worthington
Administrator. Any unexcused absences from performances may result in one or more of the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Demerit
Loss of performance opportunities
Removal from leadership responsibilities
Dismissal from band.
*There are only a few extenuating circumstances that may be deemed by Mr. Scoles, Mr. Doolittle, or a Thomas Worthington
Administrator as an excused absence from a performance. If an extenuating circumstance is in conflict with the band calendar, the
director must be notified no later than one month before any performance. This allows the director time to have another
student learn the spot in Marching Band.
E. Requirements for Excused Absences
What is an Excused Absence? These are only for appointments or other school related activities that cannot be scheduled at any time
other than during the band activity. Work, routine doctor or dental appointments do not qualify and should be schedule on a day the
student does not have practice. Please also understand that by missing a practice might limit someone’s ability to participate in a
performance.
VI. Tardiness Policies
To be on time is to be early – to be late is to be left.
Students are expected to be punctual for all band events. For example, if the rehearsal is scheduled for 8:00 A.M., the student should
arrive with adequate time to warm-up and prepare for the rehearsal to begin at 8:00 A.M.
Tardiness at a rehearsal may result in temporary suspension from future band activities and or/loss of third quarter privileges. Tardiness
at a performance may result in the student not participating in the performance.
VII. Football Season
The band will perform at all home and away football games. Football games are held on Friday evenings within the months of August,
September, October, and November. If the football team qualifies for play-offs, games will be held on Saturdays, possibly lasting
through November and into December. Band members are required to attend regardless of weather conditions.
A. Band Stand Conduct
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
8
Good bands look organized at all times. Your conduct in the band stand during football games is important to the impression
we leave with the general public. Poor discipline presents a negative impression and good discipline presents a positive
impression. You must always strive for good discipline. A part of that discipline is showing school spirit and supporting the
football team.
Be alert! Events happen quickly at football games. Watch the directors and be prepared to play the fight song after each
touchdown or field goal. Do NOT play your instrument unless the whole band is playing.
Do not invite your friends to sit with you at the band stand.
Do not bring food to the band stand. You may get refreshments during the third quarter, but you must eat away from the band
stand.
Keep good care of your instrument. It can be easily damaged if neglected.
Stay in your uniforms at ALL times. Never place any part of your uniform or instrument on the ground.
7.
8.
9.
Smoking, profanity, and/or the consumption of alcohol are strictly forbidden at all time in accordance with school board
policy. Violation of this may result in dismissal from marching band and/or disciplinary action by an administrator.
Never leave the band stand without permission from the directors. (Third quarter is the only exception to this rule).
When you are in uniform, you represent the Band Department, Thomas Worthington High School and the city of
Worthington. Always leave a positive impression!!
B. Third Quarter Procedure
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Make sure your instrument is secure and safe when leaving the band stand. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR
INSTRUMENT AT ALL TIMES.
Do not bring food back to the band stand.
Do not leave the stadium
Stay in uniform at all times.
Public display of affection will not be tolerated.
You are expected to be in your seat, ready to play, with one minute remaining in the third quarter.
Violation of these rules may result in loss of third quarter privileges for the rest of the season.
C. Bus Conduct
The band takes many trips during the school year. The majority of these trips are to away football games and marching band contests,
but these rules apply to ALL bus trips, no matter the time of the year.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
Smoking, profanity, and/or the consumption of alcohol are strictly forbidden at all time in accordance with school board
policy. Violation of this may result in dismissal from marching band and/or disciplinary action by an administrator.
The bus driver is in control of the bus at ALL times. Also, the chaperone is in control of the bus. Insubordinate behavior to
these people may result in severe disciplinary action by the director and/or administrators.
Use of moderation when talking. Again, pay close attention to the bus driver’s and/or chaperone’s instructions.
Use of profanity is not allowed at any time. Violation of this may result in severe disciplinary action by the director and/or
the administrators.
Maintain silence at railroad crossings.
Hands, arms, etc., must remain inside the bus at all times.
Remain in your seat at all times.
A seat will be reserved for the chaperones.
Do not board or load equipment until instructed to do so.
Remain on the bus until instructed to disembark.
Do not ask to change seats.
When departing from away football games, windows should remain up until further notice is given.
Always hang your uniform properly.
Be on time for bus departures. (A quote to remember, “To be on time, is to be early – to be late is to be left!!) You may be
left if you miss the departure time. Violation of this may result in suspension from further travels.
When possible, no more than two people per seat. Keep seats free of equipment until everyone is loaded.
Never yell on the bus or out the window.
Remember to use the restroom before we depart.
When arriving back at the school, leave the bus in better condition than you found it, clean and the windows up.
Do not forget to thank the bus drivers and chaperones for their assistance in making the trip safe and enjoyable.
D. Important ---Important- Bus Excuses -Important ---Important
Band members are NEVER permitted to drive themselves to band events. In the event there is a conflict with a band event and school
related event (i.e. sports, ACT/SAT, etc.), PARENTS must ask for permission to drive their son/daughter to the band event.
Band members may NOT be excused from riding home on the bus from a band event, unless the parent has:
1.
CALLED THE BAND DIRECTORS’ OFFICE (614) 450-6279/(614) 450-6283
OR
2.
EMAILED THE BAND DIRECTORS [email protected] and/or [email protected]
Both of these must be done 48 hours prior to the event to be excused from returning on the bus.
When taking your child home from an event, you must “check-out” with the director and be present with your
9
son/daughter. A student that leaves without “checking-out” may result in severe disciplinary action by the director and/or
administrators.
E. Instrument Transportation and Care
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Small instruments will go on the bus with the band member (ie. Piccolos, Flutes and Clarinets).
Instruments placed on the equipment trailer should be cased properly and loaded/unloaded by the band member.
Make sure your instrument case is properly identified.
Never lay your instrument (out of the case) on the ground.
Make sure you clean you instrument frequently. Make good use of cork grease, slide lubricant, and valve oil.
Make sure the mouthpiece is securely packed in your case. If not, it can cause damage to the instrument during transportation.
Clean your mouthpiece weekly. Warm, soapy water will kill most germs and remove food particles.
Never leave your instrument lying in the band room, especially before and after school and/or rehearsals.
Do not play other student’s instruments.
During marching band rehearsals, never leave your instrument on the sidewalk, concrete or asphalt. Place it in the grass, or
take it with you during breaks.
11. If a school owned instrument is damaged due to student negligence, the student is financially responsible
for the repair of the instrument. Normal maintenance will be handled through the school and band
boosters.
F. Music Checks/Work Checks
All band members and color guard members are required to do music checks/work check. Music checks are done during marching band
season and also in preparation for parades. They are done to insure that the music has been memorized and is being performed
correctly. The following guidelines are used for music checks.
1.
2.
3.
Band members will play their music checks squad leaders.
If a squad leader cannot pass music checks to the director on a consistent basis, a squad leader may be removed from the
leadership role.
Failure of music checks may result in a merit not earned.
VIII. Rehearsal and Performance Conduct
Well-disciplined and efficient rehearsals are crucial to our success at football games and contests.
A. Guidelines
1.
2.
Be prompt and ready to start at the designated time. See tardiness procedure above.
Inattentive behavior, disrespect to the director, and excessive talking during rehearsals contribute to negative results and
wasted time. Therefore, these actions may result in one or more of the following:
1.
2.
3.
Demerit
Removal from rehearsal
Suspension from band.
If you are requested to leave rehearsal because of disciplinary problems, it is your responsibility to arrange a conference with a director
to discuss the problem before you may return to band.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Band members are never allowed come to a band rehearsal or performance under the influence of alcohol or any illegal
substance. Violation of this may result in dismissal from marching band and/or disciplinary action by an administrator.
Never chew gum.
When performing with the band (especially when traveling to a performance), you are a reflection of the band, high school and
communities. Thus, destruction of property or insubordinate behavior will not be tolerated. Violation of this may result in
severe disciplinary action by the directors and/or administrators.
Learn your part in each music composition thoroughly. Practicing outside band rehearsal time is essential to you being
adequately prepared.
Bring your cases to the rehearsal space in designated areas while rehearsing.
You are a member of an outstanding band program; try to make a positive contribution toward the present and
future success of our program.
10
B. Daily Requirements for Marching Band
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Notebook with coordinates.
Squad leaders should have drill charts
White/Athletic socks and tennis shoes – no casual/dress shoes.
Music
Instrument in working condition.
Anyone not meeting the above requirements is subject to loss of third quarter privileges and/or a demerit
IX. How to Memorize Music and Color Guard Routine
Memorization can often seem like the most daunting responsibility of marching band members. Don’t worry…It’s Easy! While there
isn’t any one way to do this, here are some tips and one suggested method:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Play the song/Do the work correctly.
Get it stuck in your head. Practice it so often (don’t cram) that you can sing/hum it without looking at the music.
Practice with a friend…two friends…a lot of friends. This not only passes the time and it more enjoyable, but it can also serve
as friendly competition, which makes us more motivated and more likely to gain greater achievement.
Practice in front of a mirror. Do you have great posture? Do you have the proper hand position?
Practice FREQUENTLY. Repetition is the key to memorization. Cramming will never be successful.
Method:
AFTER you can correctly perform the song and it is stuck in your head.
1. Play a short passage (8-16 measures or 32-64 counts)
2. Play it again
3. Close your eyes and play it again WITHOUT stopping.
4. Look at the music, noting the mistakes you made (Mistakes happen. Don’t worry. It’s part of the learning process)
5. Play the song while reading the music.
6. Close your eyes and play it again WITHOUT stopping.
HELPFUL TIP - Sing (Yes, Sing) and use fingers on the instrument while reading the music as a substitute for playing--------Do this often
to avoid muscle fatigue. Fatigued playing can result in the development of poor habits.
Experience pays off :
After your first year, you won’t be reinventing the wheel. Much of the music from the Pre-Game Show and Stand Tunes will be used
again the following year. This means the majority of new material will be coming from the contest/halftime show and perhaps a few new
stand tunes…Sounds Easy!
X. Club-W
Club-W is a well-chaperoned social event that takes place following each home football game. Snacks, pizza, water, soda and desserts are
provided for students to enjoy while hanging out with their “marching band family.” A Disc Jockey and dance floor provide other ways
for students to enjoy each other’s company.
The Club-W meetings end strictly at midnight
Other guidelines for Club-W meetings are as follows:
1. ONLY current Marching Band members and managers will be admitted to the party. This includes the sidewalk and parking lot
areas. NO OTHERS will be admitted.
2. When you leave, sign out at the front door
3. Once you have left, you may not be readmitted to the party
4. The chaperones will advise you of the venue rules. Respect the rules at all times.
5. Band football or “Pitch and Smear” are prohibited.
6. Chaperones are to be respected, obeyed and even occasionally thanked!
7. Any damages to the property will be repaired by the students involved.
8. No alcohol, tobacco or other drugs will be consumed at the party or prior to arrival at the party. If a student is suspected of
abuse, the parents, police and school officials will be contacted immediately.
9. All students will conform to all behavior standards in the Cardinal Pride Handbook.
Failure to follow these guidelines will result in immediate expulsion of the student from the party. Any violation
will be reported to the director and may be turned into Student Services for disciplinary action.
11
XI. Merits
A system aimed at reinforcing positive behaviors and correcting undesired actions, students are awarded Merits and Demerits each week.
Passing music checks, demonstrating exceptional skill, good citizenship, and generally going above and beyond minimum behavior
expectations can earn merits. Demerits are the result of excessive talking, inattentiveness, poor/disrespectful attitude and tardiness.
Stars, proudly displayed on the students’ uniform, are awarded for every 10 merits that a student receives.
XII. Uniform Requirements
Tens of thousands of dollars have been spent on uniforms to give the band the best appearance possible. The following rules are in place
to ensure that every member is in uniform when part of the Thomas Worthington Marching Band.
Hair Length: In preparation for football games, parades, and other performances, the hair must be pinned up and off the collar.
Jewelry: A wristwatch is permitted. Studded earrings (not hoops or others than hang) are permitted. No other jewelry may be
showing.
“All or None”; In public, member should never be seen wearing a partial uniform (i.e. no tie, bibs only, etc.). You must be wearing a
complete uniform or regular clothing. The only exception is the marching band hat.
Uniforms are to be worn for band performances only: Any group that would like to wear their uniforms for any school related
function must receive permission from a director. It disgraces our uniform and what it stands for if it is worn by an individual for
individual purposes, (i.e. – as a Halloween costume, by and individual for spirit week, etc.). At no time may a band member allow a
non-band member to wear their uniform.
Band T-Shirts: Band T-Shirts are available for purchase to wear underneath the uniform. At contests, the band will wait a great length
of time for results. For this purpose, we want you to be comfortable and out of your uniform. At contests, each student must be
wearing a TWHS school shirt (band, sport, or otherwise). This will help chaperones and the director locate you easily in the event of an
injury.
Uniform Care: A great deal of money has been invested in providing every student a uniform (over $600 per uniform). If it becomes
damaged in any way, please inform a chaperone or the director immediately. The student will be responsible for replacing the
uniform if it is damaged beyond repair. Please do not take the uniform home without a director’s consent.
Summer Uniform:
Red T-shirt*
Blue Shorts (Band Members)
Khaki Shorts (Color Guard Members)
White Crew Socks
White Tennis Shoes
Supplied by band, purchased by you
Furnished by you
Furnished by you
Furnished by you
Furnished by you
Fall Marching Uniform
Marching Hat and Plume
Marching Jacket with Emblem
Marching Pants/Overalls
Wrist Gauntlets
Garment Bag
White Gloves*
Black Marching Shoes*
Black Athletic Socks* (please, no dress socks)
Supplied by band
Supplied by band
Supplied by band
Supplied by band
Supplied by band
Supplied by band, purchased by you
Supplied by band, purchased by you
Furnished by you
*Denotes personal items that can be reused each year.
UNIFORM FITTING DAY
Students will be fitted for and provided a uniform. Students will arrive between designed times (according to class; i.e. Senior, Junior,
Sophomore, Freshman) and should wear athletic attire, black athletic socks and black marching band shoes.
Students will also be fitted for gloves and shoes. These personal items are not included in the Uniform Fee.
12
XIII. Financial
A successful marching band consumes a great deal of resources each year. Every effort has been made to keep costs low while avoiding
the sacrifice of a quality experience. As a member of the Thomas Worthington High School Marching Band you are likely to pay only half
of what many band members are paying in neighboring school districts. Many of the necessary fees are spread throughout the summer
and season to avoid a concentrated financial strain on families.
Families that are on free/reduced lunch will have a subsidized Cardinal Pride Fee and Participation Fee.
Financial hardships will be considered on an individual basis; please seek out the band booster president in this request.
A. Cardinal Pride Fee
The Cardinal Pride Fee is collected by the band boosters and covers the cost of visual design, musical design and instrument trailer
maintenance and insurance. Checks for $109 can be made to “Worthington Band Boosters.” This fee is required to be paid by Mini-Camp
to reserve a marcher’s position in the customized visual design.
B. Uniform Fee
The Uniform Fee is comprised of the maintenance of uniforms, including general repair and washing supplies, and replacement of
uniforms. This fee is to be paid at Uniform Fitting Day. Checks for $96 can be made out to “Worthington Band Boosters.”
C. Personal Items and Additional Costs
Each band member will be required to purchase band shoes, summer shirt (included in Cardinal Pride Fee) and gloves. If maintained
properly, these items should last four years of marching band. These it will be purchased through the band boosters on Uniform Fitting
Day. Optional Spirit Wear will have a short window available for purchasing items. Check the communications for the announcement of
the Spirit Wear window.
Estimated costs of required personal items:
Marching Shoes
$33.50
Additional Summer Shirt
$5.00
Gloves
$3.00
Deluxe Drum Major Gloves $4.00
Optional Spirit Wear (Limited Time Only):
Instrument/Luggage Tag
$3.50
Car Flag
$5.00
Show Bag
$8.00
Shorts
$10.00
Season Shirt
TBA
Hoodie (Recommended)
$25.00
Other items also available
TBA
D. Participation Fee
Use of facilities, buses and drivers are addressed in the participation fee. $85 should be paid to the TWHS Financial Services via
www.mypaymentsplus.com. This fee is to be paid using a credit or debit card online. This payment (or even partial payment) must be
completed before the first football game or the student is considered “ineligible.”
E. Instrument Rental Fee
Many students are provided the opportunity to practice and perform with quality instruments costing thousands of dollars. The
instrument rental fee covers the general maintenance of the instrument throughout the school year. This fee is to be paid during the first
quarter of the school year using www.mypaymentsplus.com. Please see “Instrument Check-out Forms” for more information.
F. Tag Day
General expenses, new uniforms, new instruments, other items and activities to provide students with enriching opportunities, are taken
care of from fundraising. Fundraising also helps keep fee costs lower. The largest event the band fundraises with is Tag Day. Students
seek out monetary donations as a united group, asking the community to continue supporting our marching band. The response is usually
overwhelming positive. Your assistance and cooperation in this event directly benefits you. Thank you so much for helping! Don’t forget
to come to the pool party later in the evening!
13
XIV. Use of Band Room Facilities
Band facilities: The instrumental room is one of the most used rooms in the school. We need to make every effort to keep
rehearsal rooms, storage rooms, music library and individual storage cabinets neat and clean.
Practice rooms: Practice rooms have been provided for students who wish to practice their music at school. They are not to be
used for studying or socializing. Anyone using a practice room for reasons other than mentioned above will not be allowed use of
the practice rooms. Lesson teachers have priority of these rooms after school. Directors, or district approved personnel, need to be
present any time the facilities are used.
Percussion/Uniform storage rooms: Percussion instruments are to be neatly stored on the shelving units. Uniforms are to be
handed out and collected by the uniform caretaker. These storage areas are not to be considered lockers for books and school
supplies.
XV. Instrument Check-out Forms
All band students who use school owned instruments must complete one thing to use the instrument: It must be filled out before an
instrument will be issued to that student.
1.
2.
Fill out an instrument check-out form. One must be filled out for each school owned instrument used. (For some band
students this will require two forms: marching band instrument and concert band instrument). Please do your best to take
care of these instruments. Any student using two or more instruments is likely handling $6,000 to $8,000 worth of
equipment.
The cost for rental of each instrument is $45.
If a school owned instrument is damaged due to negligence, the student is financially responsible for the repair of
the instrument. Normal maintenance will be handled through the band boosters.
XVI. Physical Education Waiver
The physical education graduation requirement may be replaced with two seasons of Marching Band/Athletic activities. Ineligibility or
dismissal from marching band may impact the season fulfillment.
Students may request the band directors’ signatures upon the conclusion of the season. Failure to complete the season may give cause for
waivers to remain unsigned.
The waiver may be found on the band website at www.twhsbands.org.
XII. Communication.
1.
2.
3.
4.
14
Website: www.twhsbands.org
a. Username = esi Password = esi
b. Making the band website your home page is an easy way to see weekly schedules
Email/Constant Contact:
a. Weekly email updates are delivered through Constant Contact. Please check spam folder if not receiving.
Remind/Texting:
a. Sign-up for texting reminders to get updates.
b. This is a one-way form of communication. The directors cannot see responses.
c. Directors can never see your phone number. You can never see the directors’ phone number.
Booster Meetings:
a. Usually held the 4th Monday of each month in the band room at 7:30PM.
b. Changes to the time, date or location of the meeting will be posted on the website
c. Please attend and participate
April 8, 2015
Dear Thomas Worthington Marching Band Parent,
Please take the time to read the Thomas Worthington High School Marching Band Handbook with your son or daughter. This document
contains vital information that will help make your son or daughter’s band experience very positive. If you have any question regarding
the band, do not hesitate to call or email us.
Derek Scoles
(614) 450-6238
[email protected]
Eric Doolittle
(614) 450-6279
[email protected]
Signing this agreement means that you are committing to the marching band where customized music and drill will be purchased,
written and arranged to ensure a successful season. You play a vital role in the band’s success. Please return this in a timely manner.
I have read and I also understand the band policies explained in the Thomas Worthington High School Marching
Band Student Handbook. Furthermore, I agree to abide by the policies set forth in the Student Handbook and give
my child permission to attend all activities.
____________________________________
Student Instrument – Marching Instrument
(i.e. Clarinet, Piccolo, Percussion, Color Guard)
___________________________________
Student T-Shirt Size (XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL)
____________________________________
Student Name (Print)
____________________________________
Parent Name (Print)
____________________________________
Student Signature
____________________________________
Parent Signature
____________________________________________________________________________________
Address
____________________________________
Parent/Home Phone Number
____________________________________
Parent Cell Phone
____________________________________
Parent/Alternate Phone Number
____________________________________
Parent Email Address
If Needed:
____________________________________________________________________________________
Secondary Address
____________________________________
Secondary Phone Number
____________________________________
Parent Email Address
____________________________________
Date
Please return this form, ATOD Form and
Cardinal Pride Fee by May 1st to reserve your position in the TWHS
Marching Band!
15