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1. 2012-2013 Sheldon I.S.D. Middle School Band Handbook Updated 8/13/2012 Contact the Directors Crystal Hoisager C.E. King Middle School 281- 727- 4363 (office)choisager@sheldon.k12.tx.us Anna Duello Assistant Director NMS and KMS annaduello@sheldonisd.com D.J. Eisenhart Null Middle School 281- 436 - 2862 (office) deisenhart@sheldon.k12.tx.us Band Websites: Check us out on the web at: https://www.charmsoffice.com/charms/plogin.asp KMS School Code: kms band NMS School Code: mrnullmsband (Password is your student I.D. number) Table of Contents Cover Letter Concert Ensembles Fees & Supplies Performance Attire Attendance, Grading, & Eligibility Attendance Discipline Instrument Storage & Equipment Boosters & Fundraising Band Trips & Qualifications Band Membership Form Travel Permission Form Random Drug Testing Form Internet Content Form Handbook Acknowledgement Form 1 2 3 4 5 6-7 8 9 10 11 13 15 17 19 21 Welcome to Middle School Band! By accepting membership in Band, you agree to perform to the best of your abilities and to work together with all team members to achieve the highest levels of musicianship and performance. You are expected to: 1.Report consistently and promptly to all band rehearsals, performances, and other activities;arrive early and prepared with the proper attire, equipment, and needed supplies; be ready to put forth committed effort needed to accomplish excellence. 2.Practice sufficiently to be prepared to rehearse and perform at the highest level according to your capabilities. 3.Cooperate to the fullest with your leaders knowing you will be accountable for your actions and your contribution to the success of this organization. Every year is a new opportunity for us to create music and you should know that you will be an important part of our success. We're delighted you have chosen to become part of the Band Program, and we're looking forward to another exciting year.

2. Symphonic Band Beginning Band Concert Band Concert Ensembles Page 2 The Symphonic Band is the top performing ensemble at KMS and NMS. Students in this band are expected to perform and rehearse at the highest level of their ability. Members of the Symphonic Band are highly encouraged to be enrolled in private lessons and are expected to participate in All-Region Band Auditions, Solo & Ensemble Contest, and be leaders among the performing ensembles. Members of this ensemble will attend U.I.L. Concert and Sight Reading Contest. The Symphonic Band will set the standard in musical performance, integrity, and professionalism at C.E. King Middle School and Null Middle School. It is a privilege, not a right, to be in this ensemble. Sectional Rehearsals Members of the Concert and Symphonic Band are expected to attend any and all sectional rehearsals called by the directors during concert season. All Ensembles at KMS and NMS are ability based Beginning Band is for students who have no prior experience playing a band instrument. The beginning band is separated into many different classes so students can get individualized attention to each specific instrument. Students in the Beginning Band will learn the skills needed to perform in the Concert and Symphonic Bands. Students will be placed into appropriate band classes by the band director after an interview to see what instrument is appropriate for the student’s physical skills. There is no prior study nor prerequisite needed for participation in the band program. The Beginning Band will follow the standard set by the Symphonic Band of musical performance, integrity, and professionalism. It is a privilege, not a right, to be in this ensemble. The Concert Band is the preparatory group for the Symphonic Band. Students in this band are expected to perform and rehearse at the highest level of their ability. Members of the Concert Band are encouraged to be enrolled in private lessons, participate in All-Region Band Auditions and UIL Solo & Ensemble Contest. Members of this ensemble will have the opportunity to attend U.I.L. Concert and Sight Reading Contest. The Concert Band will follow the standard set by the Symphonic Band of musical performance, integrity, and professionalism. It is a privilege, not a right, to be in this ensemble.

3. Fees & Supplies Page 3 Class Supplies (Needed at every rehearsal) • For All Students • Pencils • Black, 3-ring binder • Sheet protectors (20) *Please do not let a financial situation prevent a student from joining band. Contact the directors if we can be of help.* • Brass • Valve oil and slide grease • Trombones—Trombotine (or similar), spray water bottle • Woodwinds • 1 box of working reeds • Reed guard with four good quality reeds • Swab • Percussion • Sticks and mallets (director will specify) • Mallet bag All Supplies and Materials are due by September 7th. Band Fees All Students Band T-Shirt$15.00 Concert/Symphonic Students Formal Concert Uniform $25.00 Instrument usage fee $50.00 (see below for explanation) *You may use items from the previous year if in acceptable condition as determined by the directors. * Instrument Usage Fee** All students using school owned instruments are required to pay a $50.00 instrument usage fee. This fee goes towards yearly maintenance and cleaning of the instrument. This does not cover minor day-to-day repairs. This fee is per student and not per instrument. **pending School Board approval

4. Performance Attire Page 4 All band students are required to have a current band shirt as a part of their uniform. Band shirts and dress code approved jeans will be worn at all pep-rallies and other less formal performances throughout the year, as well as field trips. Band shirts will be compatible with the current SISD dress code and may be worn any time. Accessories, including but not limited to, jewelry, earrings, watches, etc. will not be worn while in uniform. Makeup should be conservative and not distracting. Hair should be neatly styled with hair clips kept in low profile. Informal Uniform Formal Uniform • For Concert and Symphonic band performances, students will wear the required uniform below: • Men • White tuxedo shirt • Black cummerbund and bowtie • Black dress socks • Black dress shoes • Black dress slacks • Black Belt • Ladies • White tuxedo shirt • Black cummerbund and bowtie • Black dress pants • Black closed-toe dress shoes if you have purchased a formal or informal uniform previously, and it is not in good condition. You will be asked to purchase a new uniform.

5. Eligibility Grading Attendance Attendance, Grading, & UIL Eligibility Page 5 • 33% - Participation • Attendance and effective participation in band rehearsals • 33% - Preparation • Quizzes and daily assignments based on individual practice • 34% - Performance • Playing and written tests • Proper participation at band performances, including having all necessary materials Work schedules and other activities must not interfere with the rehearsal and performance schedules that are given at the beginning of the school year. Students who enroll in other school activities, such as athletics, choir, dance, drama, etc. need to plan ahead to avoid conflicts that cannot be resolved. The band directors will work with other teachers, coaches and directors of various activities to give each student every opportunity to be a part of other groups. Non-school sponsored activities, teams, organizations and student jobs must not conflict in any way with the practice/performance schedule of the band. All students must maintain academic eligibility in order to participate in many of the bands scheduled events. For more specific information regarding UIL Academic Eligibility and House Bill 72, please refer to the C.E. King High School Student Handbook. A student who repeatedly becomes academically ineligible (3 or more times) throughout their high school career, may be subject to removal from band in order to concentrate solely on attaining the required credits for graduation. Remember that academic eligibility effects the entire band, not just the individual student in question. Parent Drop Off/Pick Up Parents must make accommodations for transportation of their children to and from sectionals and to and from the band hall during trips and special events. Lack of transportation will not be an accepted excuse for missing a band function. To ensure the safety of their children, parents are encouraged to have a plan for drop-off and pick-up of students in a timely manner from band events. Directors will only be at the band hall during times listed for sectionals and during trips for the times listed in the itinerary.

6. Attendance Page 6 An excused absence happens whenever a Band member is not present at a Scheduled Band Activity (SBA) due to illness or injury, major family event or emergency, or important unavoidable conflict, to be determined by the director. A parent/guardian note or email explaining the reason for your absence is due before any absence or upon your return to the next SBA if the absence is unexpected. If an illness or injury keeps a student out of school, we cannot permit them to come to an SBA. If your absence from school is not due to illness or injury please bring a note stating that you are allowed to attend. SBA’s are any scheduled activity on the current Band calendar. This includes rehearsals and performances (except volunteer functions). Every effort will be made to give at least two weeks written notification of any changes. Rehearsals Excused Absence Scheduled Band Activity (SBA) Consistent attendance at rehearsals (SBA) is necessary in building a foundation for excellence. Excused and unexcused absences parallel the Sheldon I.S.D. Middle School attendance policy. Students will be responsible for any missed information and for individual practice necessary to learn the material missed. Students who cannot demonstrate proper performance due to excessive absences will not be able to keep their performance privilege. *If you are well enough to attend school, you are well enough to attend and participate in all band activities.* Electronic devices, including but not limited to cell phones/MP3 players/video games/etc., are not allowed during performances, or during rehearsal.

7. Attendance cont’d Page 7 This is the privilege to perform with the Band in an SBA. The director and staff will take into account all information before performance privileges are lost to any member. Excessive absences, discipline problems, and poor performance could cause the loss of performance privilege. More than one unexcused absence can result in the loss of performance privilege. The director and staff reserve the right to select the event for loss, and what capacity you serve in the Band when not performing. Each additional absence will result in another loss of performance privilege. Fairness to the Band and the individual student will always be considered. Repeated loss of performance privilege is grounds for dismissal from the band program. Performances Performance Privilege Dental Work – Please avoid major dental work during the months of October/November and February/March. Big changes like adding or removing braces, brackets, etc. can put the child in a position where he/she can’t be successful. It is extremely important to the success of the entire band that every memberparticipates in every performance (SBA). An absence by any individual hurts the entire group. As a result, we must be very strict with these performance and attendance guidelines. An unexcused absence from a performance will result in a ZERO being recorded for a performance grade, and may cause a student to lose their performance privilege. Repeated problems will cause a student to be removed from band altogether. Excused absences will only be granted for illness/injury with medical documentation or emergency situations with parent/guardian communication.

8. Discipline Page 8 Discipline Alcohol/Drugs/Tobacco As a representative group from a Sheldon I.S.D. Middle School, the band must adhere to the latest Code of Conduct. Students should be familiar with the contents of the Code of Conduct since it is distributed each year. Additional copies can be obtained at the front office. The Sheldon I.S.D. Middle School Code of Conduct will be in effect at all scheduled band activities (SBA). Disrespectfulness toward any staff member, parent volunteer, or fellow student will not be tolerated and will result in disciplinary action. Students are to remain in designated areas during ALL scheduled band activities. Any departure or absence without parental or staff permission is grounds for permanent dismissal from the band. If a band member separately attends an event where the band is performing, he/she will be dismissed from the band. Any band member who possesses alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs, or who is under the influence of alcohol or other drugs: WILL be suspended immediately and indefinitely from the band. WILL be reported to the school district administrative authorities. The report will be in writing and will describe the behaviors and conditions surrounding the circumstances. WILL be reported and turned over to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.

9. Equipment Instrument Storage & Equipment Page 9 • All students will adhere to the following equipment guidelines whether they are using personal equipment or school-owned equipment: • Instruments will be stored properly in their cases when not in use • Students will only use instruments that belong to them or are assigned to them • Students are responsible for any and all damages to equipment they use Instrument Storage • Instrument Storage will be checked out to students based on the needs of the instruments being used in band classes. The following guidelines will apply to all students: • Instrument storage will only be used by the student to which they are assigned • Students will keep area free of trash and non-band related items • Students will not share with other students • Instruments will be properly stored with cases closed and latched securely. • Food and drink should not be stored in the area at any time. • Sheldon ISD and the Middle School Band Departments are not responsible for any personal items stored in lockers. School-owned instruments and other equipment will be issued to students at the discretion of the directorsbased on the needs of the program. By using school-owned equipment, students agree to be responsible for care and maintenance of that equipment while it is assigned to them. Students further agree to check-in equipment when requested. The current condition of all equipment should be listed on the check-out form by the student when it is assigned.

10. Boosters & Fundraising Page 10 Band Boosters The Sheldon Band Boosters is a non-profit organization open to everyone with an interest in supporting all band students in Sheldon ISD. Meetings are held monthly at the King High School Band Hall (schedule to follow). It takes a great deal of parent support to maintain a program of this size. Volunteers to be chaperones, officers, committee members, and workers are always needed. Your help and participation is greatly appreciated. The Boosters provide important funds for senior scholarships, banquets, student social events, equipment, private lesson financial aid, and other special student needs. These funds are earned through the operation of parental volunteer efforts and student-centered fundraising projects. Music Stores Student Fundraising Contact Jennie Davis for more information on volunteering and fundraising activities. jennie-davis@sbcglobal.net 281-757-0805 Fundraising projects will be scheduled periodically in order to raise funds for the support of the band program. The band will conduct two fundraisers each year, with the Band Boosters conducting all other fundraising projects. All money collected will be used to meet the needs of the band program. San Jacinto Music Atrium 16 Tower 11811 East Freeway, Suite 340 Houston, TX 77029 713-450-3306 www.sanjacintomusic.com Fort Bend Music Center 12919 Southwest Freeway Service Road Suite 160 Stafford, TX 77477 281-494-5885 www.fortbendmusiccenter.com

11. Band Trips Payment Information Band Trips and Qualifications Page 11 If a refund is approved, it will come in the form of a school check and will be mailed home. There are no Cash Refunds. All field trip payments must be made in advance. It is important that all payment deadlines are met to ensure the student is guaranteed a ticket and transportation. A letter with all dates and payment amounts will be sent home with students prior to any trip. Once tickets are purchased, if a student becomes ineligible for any reason, NO REFUNDS WILL BE ISSUED. Field trips and performances off SISD campuses are a privilege. Students must adhere to and meet all eligibility requirements as set forth by the below listed qualifications. Field trip eligibility will always be at the discretion of the Band Directors. Qualifications 1.) Must be passing all classes 2.) Must be passing Band Class with 75 or higher 3.) Must attend all sectionals and rehearsals 4.) Must attend all performances 5.) Must have no disciplines issues in Band Class 6.) Must not be placed in I.S.S. Qualifications

12. Please read, fill out, and return the following forms listed below to your director by Friday, August 31, 2012 • Band Membership Form • SISD Band Travel Permission Form • SISD Random Drug Testing Authorization • SISD Internet Publishing Permission Form • Middle School Handbook Acknowledgement

13. Band Membership Form Page 13 Student Information Last Name_____________________ First Name_________________________ Address__________________________________________________________ City_______________________ State________________ Zip________________ Gender____________ Date of Birth________________ Year___2012-2013____ Phone Number____________________Cell_____________________________ Parent Information Mother’s Name____________________________________________________ Mother’s Address__________________________________________________ Mother’s Cell______________________________________________________ Father’s Name____________________________________________________ Father’s Address___________________________________________________ Father’s Cell______________________________________________________ E-mail Addresses Student’s e-mail address____________________________________________ Mother’s e-mail address_____________________________________________ Father’s e-mail address_____________________________________________ Personal Instrument Information Model______________ Brand______________ Serial No._______________

14. SISD Band Travel Permission Form Page 15 [Parent/Guardian MUST complete and sign this form for their child to travel] SHELDON I.S.D. BAND TRAVEL PERMISSION FORM (Please tear out, sign, & return) I agree to allow my child to attend ALL BAND ACTIVITIES FOR WHICH HE/SHE IS ELIGIBLE. I understand that while student safety is a high priority for the District, under State Law, the school is not responsible for medical costs associated with a student injury. I expressly waive all claims for medical expenses, loss of services, or other claims, and I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the District, its Trustees, employees, and agents from all claims made against it or them on behalf of my child. I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the District, its Trustees, employees, and agents from all claims made by third parties against it or them which result from my child’s actions on each trip. I understand that the District, its Trustees, employees, and agents are not waiving any sovereign or governmental immunity which it or they have under Texas law. I have read and understood this release and sign it voluntarily and with full knowledge of its significance. STUDENT NAME:_____________________ ADDRESS:___________________ PARENT PHONE:_________________CELL PHONE:_____________________ PARENT ALTERNATE PHONE:______________________________________ (Office phone, pager, another cell phone, etc.) PERSON (OTHER THAN PARENT) TO CONTACT IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: NAME:_________________________ PHONE:________________________ (This information is very important. Please provide the name and phone number of a relative or family friend who will know how to find you in an emergency. Please do not use any of the phone numbers listed above. If your child is injured, or becomes ill while away from school, it is vital that school personnel are able to contact you as quickly as possible.) KNOWN ALLERGIES OR MEDICAL CONDITIONS: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MEDICATIONS CURRENTLY USING:_________________________________ INSURANCE CARRIER:__________________ POLICY #:_________________ (To be used for emergency treatment only. Parent and school administrators will always be notified of emergencies.) PARENT SIGNATURE: _____________________________________________ DATE SIGNED: ___________________________________ Date _________________________________________________________________

15. Acknowledgement This acknowledges receipt of the Sheldon Independent School District Middle School Band Handbook. The handbook should be kept for reference throughout the year for both parents and student. In accepting this band handbook, I accept the privileges and responsibilities as a member of the Sheldon I.S.D. Band Program, and promise to uphold in my actions and attitudes those qualities which will honor the band and school. Parent/Guardian Signature: _____________________________________ Student Signature:_____________________________________________ Date:________________________________________________________