The way we present ourselves is part of the performance. McDonough Middle School Band students are expected to arrive at performances in the correct attire, looking neat, prepared, and ready to represent the Warhawk Band with pride. Performance attire is part of performance readiness and will count toward the student’s performance grade. Please review all attire requirements carefully and purchase required items before the stated deadlines.

Band Polo Shirt

Required for All Band Students. The official McDonough Middle School Band Polo Shirt is the standard performance shirt for the Warhawk Band.

Shirt Details

• Cost: $45

• Sizes: Adult men’s sizing

• Available Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL

• Order Deadline: September 4, 2026

Important Sizing Note

The polo shirts are ordered in adult men’s sizes. Parents should take this into consideration when selecting a size, especially for younger or smaller students. If your child normally wears youth sizes, an Adult XS or Small may still fit larger than expected. Whenever possible, please double-check sizing before submitting the order.

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Payment Options

Families may pay by:

• MySchoolBucks

• Cash to Mr. Sharpe

Please make sure any cash payment is clearly identified with:

• Student name

• Band class

• Purpose of payment: Band Polo

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Standard Performance Attire

Unless otherwise announced, the standard MMS Band performance uniform is:

• Official MMS Band Polo

• Black dress pants or slacks

• Approved black skirt when appropriate

• Black socks

• Black dress shoes

The goal is for the ensemble to look uniform, clean, and professional.

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What Does NOT Count as Performance Attire?

Unless specifically approved by Mr. Sharpe, students should not wear:

• Jeans

• Sweatpants

• Joggers

• Athletic pants

• Leggings as pants

• Shorts

• Crocs

• Slides

• Sandals

• Sneakers with bright colors

• White socks

• Patterned socks

• Clothing with large logos

• Hoodies over the performance polo

• Hats or headwear not required for religious or medical reasons

If you are unsure whether an item is appropriate, please ask before the performance day.

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Why Does Attire Matter?

Band is both a musical and visual performance. Before the audience hears the first note, they already see the ensemble. Correct attire demonstrates:

• Preparation

• Professionalism

• Discipline

• Attention to detail

• Teamwork

• School pride

Every student contributes to the appearance of the entire group. One ensemble. One standard. One presentation.

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Attire and Performance Grades

Students are expected to arrive at performances with the complete required uniform. Arriving without required attire may affect the student’s performance-readiness grade. Students are graded on whether they followed the communicated requirements and were prepared for the performance. Students should check their attire before leaving home. Please avoid waiting until arrival at the performance venue to discover that something is missing.

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Optional Band Apparel

Throughout the year, additional band apparel may be offered, such as:

• Band T-shirts

• Hoodies

• Spirit wear

• Drumline apparel

• Event shirts

Optional apparel does not automatically replace the required performance uniform. Students should always follow the attire instructions announced for each specific event.

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Honor Band and Special Event Attire

Honor Band, All-State, and other outside events may establish their own attire requirements. Families should carefully review the information provided for each event. The standard MMS polo should not automatically be assumed to be the required uniform for outside ensembles.