PREFACE

                This handbook describes the JCMHS Band Program and its policies, rules, and regulations.   Band members are required to follow the policies, rules and regulations of the JCMHS Band Program.  School rules and policies are in force at all times.  School policy shall have priority over band policy in the event of any policy conflict.  Mr. McBride or designated school approved personnel shall have authority to suspend or amend any band policy at any time deemed necessary in the best interest of the overall band program. 

Letter to Parents

 Welcome to one of the most exciting organizations available to your child!  The band program at JCMHS offers many opportunities for parents to become involved with their child’s interest and gives members the chance to grow closer to their parents, siblings, and friends.  In a world where the attention of your family is so easily divided, the JCMHS band provides opportunities for family members to enjoy a unified interest, giving the family something similar to talk about around the dinner table.  There is a place for everyone in the band.  If you choose to participate, you become a member of a very active, multifaceted family. 

You can start your involvement with a simple band parent meeting where we cover things like:

·         Setting the band activities calendar

·         Organizing trips to be smooth and educational

·         Establishing procedures for regular band functions

·         Establish parent jobs 

·         Raising funds!  Woo Hoo!

Additionally, there are several jobs that must be filled:

·         Equipment Truck driver.

·         Loading Crew 

·         Equipment maintenance and repair - a nuts and bolts (and duct tape) type job.  

·         Food Organizer/Server to include getting food from businesses, organizing covered dishes, etc. 

·         Field Equipment movement on and off the field, parades, concerts

·         Uniform cleaning, maintenance, distribution, fitting

·         Health care

·         Hall / Rest Room watchers 

·         Bus Chaperones 

We hope that you share our excitement in creating phenomenal opportunities for our students.  We encourage parents to be active supporters of our efforts through the JCMHS Band Parent Organization know as "The Blue Crew".  It is good for students to see their parents display love, a great work ethic, and selflessness; all those things we want to see in our own children.

 On behalf of the staff at JCMHS, we thank you for your consideration.

 Most Sincerely,

James McBride

Director of Bands, JCMHS

OBJECTIVES

The JCMHS Bands form an integral part of school life and are recognized as an all-school activity. Band is one of the largest and most active selected-voluntary student organizations on campus.

 The primary objectives of the band program are: 

                • Cultural and Educational - To foster continued development of music appreciation and understanding through the study and performance of music.  To develop interested and discriminating listeners, provide a well-rounded music education and prepare members for musical activities beyond high school. 

                • Recreational - To provide all members with the opportunity for a worthy use of leisure time, an emotional outlet, and a good social experience. 

                • Service - To lend color, pageantry and atmosphere to community and school affairs while promoting and enhancing the dignity and reputation of Millen, Jenkins County at all appearances. 

                • Citizenry - To enhance the member’s ability to interact with others in a positive manner and to develop the ability to function as a responsible member of a group and the community. 

RULES

Observance of Policies, Rules, Regulations

·         Band members are expected to behave properly at all times. 

·         Misbehavior reflects poorly on the band, school, and community. 

·         Professed ignorance of Policies will not be accepted as an excuse for misbehavior. 

·         Every effort is made to follow Policy.  However, directors and chaperones may find it necessary to add to or alter Policies for the well-being of the overall band program.  These may or may not be in writing as the situation dictates.  Policies and directions, delivered verbally, should be considered the same as a written Policy.

·         Failure to follow rules will include consequences dependent upon severity of infraction.  See section XIV “Consequences” for guidance.

 I.                   ATTENDANCE

Absence, Tardy, Early Release

 Attendance is mandatory for all scheduled meetings, rehearsals and performances.   Any absence, tardy or early release must be requested in writing and signed by the parent.  If circumstances prohibit the use of a written note from a parent prior to an absence, tardy, or early release, a note signed by the guardian must be submitted after the fact.

 Any unauthorized absence, tardy or early release from any scheduled band meeting, rehearsal or performance is prohibited.

The following rules will govern authorized absences, tardies, and early releases.

                A) Students may be temporarily excused from rehearsal under the following conditions: 

                                i) When attendance in school would endanger their health or the health of others 

                                ii) On special and recognized religious holidays observed by their faith that is previously discussed with the band director 

                                iii) Family Emergency that is communicated with the band staff 

                                iv) When mandated by order of governmental agencies (pre-induction physical examination of service in the armed forces or court order)

                                v)  Conflicts with other school activities;  Every effort will be made to coordinate with the conflicting school activity to accommodate participation with the sponsors in both activities.  Written communication is required between the coaches, teacher, band director, etc.

                B) Tardies

                               i)  A student will be deemed tardy if he/she is not in his/her assigned position when roll is taken or as soon as “set” is called by the instructor directing the daily basics.  On regular after school Marching Band rehearsals, the time for basics is 3:20 p.m.  For extra rehearsals, the start time given will be the time used for Roll call. 

ii)  3 Tardies or early releases constitute 1 absence.

 C) Early Releases

i)  Requests for Early Releases are requested and treated in the same manner as an absence request to include emergency releases.

ii)  3 Early Releases constitute 1 absence

D) An absence, tardy, or early release for any reason other than those previously stated will be considered unauthorized and the offender will be processed. 

E) Consequences for unauthorized absences 

                                i) First absence: Student and Director conference, 1 demerit.

                                ii) Second absence: Student and Director conference 2 demerits.

                                iii) Third absence: Student and Director conference, 3 demerits.                                                             

II.                 CARE FOR BAND ROOM, PRACTICE FACILITIES, BUSES, ANY OTHER AREA OCCUPIED BY THE BAND TO INCLUDE STORES, RESTARAUNTS, AWAY PERFORMANCE AREA

 A) Access to band rooms, practice facilities, and rehearsals is limited to band members unless authorized by a director. 

                B) Food or drink is not permitted in band rooms, practice facilities, and rehearsals unless authorized by a director. 

                C) Instrument storage cabinets (including personally owned instruments)

                                i) Members are assigned specific shelf space for storage of instruments, binders, accessories.  Please use the space assigned to you. 

                                ii) Shelves must be kept clean and clear of personal items except for designated areas. 

                D) Personal items 

                                iii) The JCSS and the band are not responsible for personal items left in any location to include JCSS campuses, other campuses, buses, restaurants, hotels, etc.

 III.              APPEARANCE

                 A) Maintain a conservative personal appearance within limitations placed on individual grooming and attire. 

                                i) The band helmet must be worn with the lower-side edges parallel to the ground and touching the top of                                                    each ear.  The front point of the helmet should be level with the top eye lashes.

                                ii) Gentlemen must maintain a modest haircut appearance. 

                                iii) Jewelry 

                                                (a) No visible jewelry shall be worn while in uniform 

                                                (b) Females may wear a small stud ear ring while in uniform 

                                                (c) Facial / tongue jewelry is not permitted in uniform

                                iv) Visible fingernail polish is not permitted in Uniform unless the polish meets the needs of a specific performance.

 IV.              REHEARSALS

Rehearsals are the life-blood of our band.  It is where our craft is formed.  Without it we have no band.  Performance is a celebration of our existence; the capstone of our hard work; the resulting diamond, hardened by pressure, cut with expert precision, and shining for the world's pleasure and amazement.

Be At Rehearsals.

                 A) Band members are required to be prepared for rehearsals to include having required equipment and supplies.  Requirements vary between ensembles.

                B) Attendance is closely monitored.  Failure to have appropriate documentation for missed rehearsals, to include tardies, absences, or early releases, will result in disciplinary action or dismissal from the program.  See "ATTENDANCE" section for specifics on attendance, tardy, early release requirements. 

V.                TRANSPORTATION

A)  All members are to use school provided transportation to any school sponsored event.

B)  Parents may contact Mr. McBride if they wish to transport their own child home from an away event.  Students who do not use school transportation must take all of their uniform and equipment with them to return to band room the following school day unless it's a tuba or percussion equipment.

C)  The bus must be kept clean at all times.  Each bus will be equipped with 2 large trash bags plus the trash bucket at the front of the bus.  Please do not put liquids into the trash unless it can be completely sealed without spilling into the trash bag.

D)  Keep your uniform neat and clean during transportation to and from events.

E)  Opposite genders are not allowed to sit with each other.

F)  Unnecessary touching is prohibited and will be closely monitored.

G)  Stop all noise at all Rail Road tracks and any time required by the bus driver or a bus leader. 

VI.              DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

A)  No one is dismissed until a formal dismissal is issued from Mr. McBride or designated leader.

B)  Buses and Band Room must be cleaned and in order, to include properly FOLDED, HUNG, and stored uniforms, helmets, shoes, gloves, feathers, instruments, drums, sticks, keyboards, mallets, music, folders, drill, binders, chairs, stands, chargers, phones, trash, and personal belongings.

C)     Early departures (if you leave earlier than allowed) will result in demerits and disciplinary action.

D)  Please be ready to depart soon after dismissal as Mr. McBride has an hour drive home.

F)  It is impossible to predict exactly what time we will be complete with a performance involving other factors such as football games, band competitions, parades, etc.  Therefor; you may use your cellular device to call your ride to have them ready to pick you up soon after dismissal procedures are complete.  It usually takes us an average of 20 minutes to clean the bus, off load the trailer, stow equipment, stow uniforms, clean the band room, and reset the furniture and equipment.  I will let you know if we can be done at a specific time. 

VII.           ELIGIBILITY

A)  All members must be eligible to participate according to guidelines set by JCSS and JCMHS.

                B)  Students must be in good academic standing with all classes.

                C)  Students who disrespect teachers, administration, parents, adult helpers, band leaders, or each other will cause ineligibility to participate.

                D)  ISS and OSS students are ineligible.

                D)  Ineligible members may not compete nor travel with the group in any capacity.  In order to maintain the integrity of the group, the directors have the responsibility to replace or reassign positions as needed to cover the absence of ineligible members. 

 VIII.         HAZING

A)  Hazing is prohibited.  Offenders will face charges.

IX.              MEDICATION ON TRIPS

                 A) The JCSS has very specific policies on student administration of medications on band trips. 

                B) Consult with Band Director for the current school policy on medications. 

 X.                 Misbehavior / General Conduct 

 Reasons for dismissal from band and/or the band program, dismissal from the activity with no credit, and/or suspension from performances are set by the Band Director and the School Board as described in the Student and Faculty Handbook.  Additional penalties are at the discretion of the band director and could be imposed for the following violations: 

                A) Consumption of alcohol, drugs, smoking, chewing, dipping

                                i) Drinking alcohol, taking drugs, smoking, chewing tobacco, or dipping is not permitted. 

                                ii) Violation of this policy may result in immediate dismissal. 

                                                (a) Violation of this policy at an event, which requires overnight travel, may result in being sent                                                       home in advance of the conclusion of the event. 

                B) All costs associated with being sent home in advance will become the responsibility of the member and/or his family.  This will include the cost of transportation for the member and a chaperone. 

                C) Destruction or damaging of property 

                                i) Clearly apparent attempts, whether successful or not, to damage or destroy property, are not permitted or acceptable. 

                                ii) This policy applies to any property, whether personal, school, or private. 

                                iii) Band members and/or their parent(s) will be financially responsible for costs                                                                                 associated with restoring or replacing damaged or destroyed property. 

                                iv) If required, band members who are suspected of violating this policy may be reported to appropriate civil authorities.

                D) Using Profanity towards Directors, Parents or other students 

                E) Conduct detrimental to the organizations well-being

                F) Willful Disobedience  

 XI.              OBEDIENCE

A)  Band members will show courtesy, kindness, and respect to ALL CHAPERONES, students, band leaders and directors.

B)  Respect will be shown both on and off the field, and anywhere you are.

  XII.            PROPERTY / INSTRUMENTS / UNIFORMS

                A) All property 

                                i) Band members must properly care for school owned property. 

                                ii) Band members may be financially responsible to repair or replace school owned property, which is not properly cared for. 

                B) Instruments and related equipment

                                 i) A user fee per semester may be required for use of school owned instruments (percussion included).                                            

                                ii) If school owned property appears to require repair, notify a director prior to attempting to repair or hire such repair. 

                C) Uniforms 

                                i) Never wear the uniform to events other than those designated by the director. Always wear the entire uniform with all accessories. Never wear any jewelry (including watches) or make-up while in uniform. 

                                ii) You are responsible for the EXACT NUMBERED UNIFORM ITEM that you receive. 

                 D) Members may be required to pay for some parts of their uniform (e.g. shoes, socks, gloves).  Directors will identify which parts must be purchased and which must be purchased from designated sources.  

                E) Uniforms are inspected before every performance.  Everything must be clean and in good repair.  Failure to comply with this policy may lead to being excluded from performing. 

                F) JCSS owned uniforms will be stored at school and may not be taken home without written permission.  

XIII.         GENERAL CONDUCT

A)  Bands take trips for contests and performances AND MUST EMBRACE THE CODE OF CONDUCT

              B) Code Of Conduct 

                                i) As members of the Jenkins County Middle / High School Instrumental Music Department you will be highly visible, not only as a musical organization, but as representatives of our school, community, and state.  That responsibility and opportunity carries with it an obligation to project and maintain the absolute highest moral and musical integrity.  Many of those who come into contact with us as we perform and travel will form their opinions of of our entire school based upon the impressions we create, both in close proximity and from a distance.  Therefore, the rules of the Jenkins County School System and individual campus program rules and regulations apply at all times.  As in any situation, good judgment must always prevail. 

                                ii) All rules and expectations are set forth to help you enjoy your trips to the fullest and to avoid the embarrassment and inconvenience which momentary lapses in judgment may bring about.  It is the goal of the Jenkins County Instrumental Music Program, that upon our return home to Millen, GA, you will have acquired an even greater sense of pride as a War Eagle member and as a Jenkins County Public School musical ambassador. 

                                iii) Punctuality is essential to our busy trip schedule.  Be early for everything and help each other stay organized.  When enjoying free time and during sightseeing excursions, always stay in groups of three or more members.  This is for your safety.

                                iv) School dress code is required on all trips.  In swimming pool areas, keep attire modest.  When in concert attire, remain in full concert attire.  It is unprofessional to have shirttails out, to wear athletic shoes while in formal attire, to chew gum, etc.  The loading of equipment may necessitate adjustments to these expectations.  Follow the instructions of the chaperone or adult sponsor in charge. 

                                v) Mixed company in hotel rooms is prohibited. 

                                vi) Do not be influenced nor persuaded to engage in any behavior that is in conflict with the spirit of our Code of Conduct. 

                                vii) Members must remain reasonably quiet at all times when in hotel facilities.  Curfews will be strictly observed.  Any personal needs, which might require leaving your room after curfew, must be arranged in advance with a chaperone or director. 

                                viii) Band members are responsible for all their own equipment and personal items (triple check for uniform parts, extra reeds, valve oil, mutes, music, etc.)  However, we all must share in the logistical responsibilities of the trip.  We will all participate as equipment movers, sanitation engineers, stagehands, etc.  Please perform the duties asked of you. 

                                ix) There will be times when changes to our plans become necessary.  Look for solutions to problems and avoid complaining.  Concerns should be expressed at an appropriate time and in an appropriate manner.  Suggestion:  Never complain to anyone who cannot solve your problem.  See a band member, manager, friend, section leader, crew leader, upper level leader, drum major, regulator, or adult helper in that order.  Any in the chain of command may instruct you to come to the band director.

XIV.            CONSEQUENCES / DEMERITS

THIS SECTION IS STILL BEING CONSTRUCTED PENDING GUIDANCE FROM STAFF.

1 Demerit

i. loss of 3rd quarter break

2 Demerits

i. loss of 3rd quarter break

ii.  100 yards of satisfactory "FACTORY" to standard

3 Demerits

i.  loss of 3rd quarter break

ii. bleacher / facility cleaning duty for next 2 games or events

iii. 100 yards of satisfactory "FACTORY" with long tones

4 Demerits

i. loss of 3rd quarter break

ii. bleacher cleaning and bus cleaning duty for next 2 events

iii. 100 yards of satisfactory "FACTORY" with field show tune

5 Demerits

i.  loss of 3rd quarter break

ii. bleacher cleaning and bus cleaning duty for next 2 events

iii.  200 yards of satisfactory "FACTORY" with long tones and field show tune

6 Demerits

i. loss of 3rh quarter break

ii.  bleacher cleaning and bus cleaning duty for next 3 weeks

iii. individual and satisfactory show marching with playing

iv.  100 yards of satisfactory "FACTORY" with long tones

v. parents consultation

vi.  possible removal from the band for excessive absences

7 Demerits

i. loss of 3rh quarter break

ii.  bleacher cleaning and bus cleaning duty for next 3 weeks

iii. individual and satisfactory show marching with playing

iv.  100 yards of satisfactory "FACTORY" with long tones

v. All-State Major Scales for level

vi.  parental consultation to negotiate improvement and consequences for no progress

8 Demerits

i. Student is given a warning on impending removal from the band program

ii. loss of 3rh quarter break

iii.  bleacher cleaning and bus cleaning duty for next 3 weeks

iv. individual and satisfactory show marching with playing

v.  100 yards of satisfactory "FACTORY" with long tones

vi. All-State Major Scales for level

vii.  parental consultation to negotiate improvement and consequences for no progress

9 Demerits

Student is removed from the band program WITHOUT REFUND OF DUES OR ANY MONIES PAID TO THE BAND PROGRAM.  Any missing or damaged equipment or uniform must be paid for and cleared through the JCMHS main office.  Failure to replace damaged or missing equipment will result in failure of the grade. 

Notice of Non-Discrimination 

 JCSS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities.