West Memorial Jr High Band Handbook

Introduction

Welcome to the West Memorial Junior High School Band Program!
Our mission is to build a strong foundation in instrumental performance through daily instruction and public performances. In addition to musical skills, each student develops teamwork, citizenship, leadership, good sportsmanship, and responsibility.

The West Memorial Junior High School Bands have a proud tradition of excellence that depends on cooperation and dedication from all participants—students, parents, directors, and administration.

This handbook outlines the expectations and procedures of the West Memorial Junior High School Band Program. These reflect the policies of Katy Independent School District (Katy ISD); therefore, all district and campus rules apply to all band activities.

Please read all sections carefully and complete the Band Handbook Acknowledgment and Travel Permission Form in Canvas.

If you have questions, contact your band directors.

Membership and Placement

Membership in the West Memorial Junior High Band is determined by:

• Academic performance

• Behavior in band and other classes

• Needs of the program

• Director’s discretion and recommendation

• Practice habits and dedication

• Auditions

• UIL-prescribed band instrumentation

Band Ensembles

• Symphonic Band – Varsity UIL Performing Band

• Concert Band – Non-Varsity UIL Performing Band

• Beginning Band – For 6th and 7th grade beginning band students

Placement Criteria

• Report card grades and eligibility

• Behavior and citizenship

• Practice habits and work ethic

• Audition results

• Prior performance and attendance

• Director recommendation
  
  

Course Fees

Participation in the West Memorial Junior High Band Program includes a district-required course fee of $50.00.
This fee supports the instructional, performance, and operational needs of the band program and ensures all students have access to quality educational materials and experiences.

Purpose of the Course Fee

Course fees are used to cover:

• Sheet music, method books, and performance literature

• Contest and festival entry fees

• Classroom and rehearsal supplies

• Clinicians, guest conductors, and master classes

• Awards and student recognition materials

• Transportation costs for local performances, 8th Grade Nights, and any other events outside of UIL

Payment Information

The $50.00 Band Course Fee is due at the beginning of the school year and may be paid through Katy ISD Pay N’ Go.

Additional optional costs may include:

• Band T-shirt (required for informal uniform)

• Formal uniform tie (for performing ensembles)

All collected funds are used to directly support the students and enhance the overall quality of the West Memorial Junior High Band Program.

Students who have not paid the required course fee may experience delays in receiving program materials or apparel, including shirts or other distributed items.

Additional Costs

The following expenses are not included in the $50 course fee and will be collected separately when applicable:

• Region Band Audition Fees

• Solo & Ensemble Contest Fees

These costs are determined by contest entry fees and event participation.

Note on Financial Responsibility

The West Memorial Junior High Band Program does not offer scholarships or fee waivers for the district-required course fee. Families are responsible for ensuring the payment is made in full by the designated deadline.

Usage Fees

Students who are issued a school-owned instrument are required to pay a $100 annual usage fee.
This fee supports the upkeep, maintenance, and continued availability of quality instruments for the West Memorial Junior High Band Program. It ensures each instrument remains in proper working condition and helps offset repair and service costs associated with normal use.

Fee Amount and Payment

The instrument usage fee is $100.00 per school year for all students using a school-owned instrument.
Payments can be made through Katy ISD Pay N’ Go, cash.
Payment is due at the start of the school year or when an instrument is issued.

Purpose of the Usage Fee

Usage fees help cover:

• Routine maintenance and cleaning

• Replacement of worn or damaged parts (pads, corks, springs, felts, etc.)

• Professional servicing by a district-approved repair technician

• Supplies required to maintain the instrument’s condition and playability

Student Responsibility

Students are expected to:

• Treat all school instruments with care and responsibility

• Store instruments in their assigned lockers or shelves when at school

• Take instruments home daily for practice

• Report any problems or damage to a director immediately

Damage caused by negligence, misuse, or unauthorized repairs is not covered by the usage fee.
Families will be responsible for all repair costs resulting from such damage.
Repeated negligence or misuse may result in loss of access to a school-owned instrument.

Symphonic Band

Members of the Symphonic Band are required to participate in the following activities:

• Pep Rallies (students must be eligible to participate)

• All Concerts

• Solo & Ensemble Contest

• Pre-UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Assessment

• UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contest

• Recruiting or Community Performances (students must be eligible to participate)

• Region Band Auditions (optional but highly encouraged)

Participation in Region Band Auditions provides students with valuable experience in individual performance, competitive preparation, and advanced musicianship.

Concert Band

Members of the Concert Band are required to participate in:

• Pep Rallies (students must be eligible to participate)

• All Concerts

• Solo & Ensemble Contest

• Pre-UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contest

• UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contest

• Recruiting or Community Performances (students must be eligible to participate)

Beginning Band

The Beginning Band is designed for 6th and 7th grade students who are learning to play a band instrument for the first time.

Membership is based on:

• Attendance at an instrument selection event or meeting with a director

• Director approval

• UIL-prescribed band instrumentation

Performance Opportunities

Beginning Band members participate in:

• Winter and Spring Concerts

• Spring Contest Band (as scheduled)

Curriculum Focus

Students develop fundamental musical and social skills through method-based instruction emphasizing:

• Tone production and breath support

• Embouchure and posture

• Basic rhythm reading and counting

• Scales, fingerings, and hand position

• Music terminology and listening skills

Each section rehearses separately to build a strong foundation before joining full ensemble rehearsals later in the year.

Required Equipment

A recommended instrument list and accessories guide are provided at the Beginning Band Instrument Drive.
Students must bring instruments and supplies to class each day and take them home for daily practice.

Beginning Band members will wear their West Memorial Band T-shirt and blue jeans for all performances.

Pep Rallies and Off-Campus Performances

Participation in pep rallies or off-campus performances is a privilege reserved for students who demonstrate consistent responsibility, eligibility, and positive behavior.
These performances represent the West Memorial Junior High School Band to our school and community; therefore, all participants must meet the following requirements.

How to Qualify to Go

Students must meet all of the following criteria:

• Be academically eligible in accordance with the “No Pass, No Play” rule.

• Have no ISS, OSS, or disciplinary infractions during the current six-week grading period.

• Submit a completed Blue Travel Form to the Band Office before the event deadline.

Students who fail to meet these requirements will not be permitted to attend or perform at the event.
The Band Director reserves the right to withhold participation from any student for safety, behavioral, or logistical reasons if it is deemed necessary for the well-being of the group or the success of the performance.

Exceptions may only be granted by the Band Director in accordance with Katy ISD policy.

Uniforms

Informal Uniform

Used for pep rallies and informal events:

• West Memorial Band T-shirt

• Blue jeans

T-shirts will be available for purchase annually.

Formal Uniform

Used for concerts and contests:

• White long-sleeved, button-down dress shirt

• School orange tie (provided or purchased through the band program)

• Solid black slacks (no jeans or leggings)

• Black dress shoes with solid black socks (no athletic shoes)

Private Instruction

Participation in the Katy ISD Private Lesson Program is highly encouraged.
Private instructors are district-approved professionals who provide individualized lessons to strengthen tone, technique, and musicianship. Lesson fees are standardized across the district. Students benefit from the focused, one-on-one attention private lessons offer.

Tests and Grades

Band is a graded academic course that includes classroom and out-of-school responsibilities.
Performances and rehearsals outside of school are part of the curriculum and are graded accordingly.

Absences must be communicated to directors at least two weeks (10 business days) in advance, except in emergencies.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) classifies all co-curricular band activities as instructional; these events are required extensions of the classroom and contribute to the student’s grade.

Daily Expectations

Students must be prepared to play individually in class or sectionals for chairs and/or a grade each day.

Grading Criteria

Effort:

• Preparedness and participation

• Cooperation and class etiquette

• Instrument maintenance

• Consistent practice and punctuality

Performance:

• Concerts, contests, and sectionals

• Playing tests and challenges

Each concert or contest counts as a major test grade.

Note: Avoid tightening orthodontic braces the week of any performance or audition.

Sectionals

Sectionals are an essential part of the West Memorial Band curriculum. They provide focused instruction for individual sections and allow for greater progress on ensemble music and fundamentals.

Sectionals may be scheduled during Advisory, before school (8:30–9:00 AM), or after school (4:15–4:45 PM) depending on director and student availability.

Students must arrive on time, bring all materials, and participate actively. Consistent attendance and preparation are graded expectations. If a student misses a sectional for any reason, they must schedule and complete a makeup within 10 school days to receive credit.

If a conflict arises with another school activity (athletics, tutorials, etc.), students must communicate with their director in advance so an alternative time can be arranged.

Attendance and Communication

All absence communication must be in writing (email preferred).

Planned Absences

Planned absences must be communicated at least 10 business days in advance.
Even if approved, planned absences may still affect your grade or performance evaluation if they result in missed rehearsals, sectionals, or performances that cannot be made up.
Frequent or repeated absences—regardless of approval—may also result in a schedule change to another band placement at the director’s discretion.

Directors will make every effort to work with families to resolve conflicts, but students are expected to prioritize scheduled band activities as part of their commitment to the program.

Excused Absences

Excused absences align with Katy ISD policy and may include:

• Medical or family emergencies

• Religious observances

• Approved school events

Unexcused absences may result in suspension from performances or grade deductions.

No Pass, No Play

Students must maintain a 70 or higher in all classes to participate in contests, trips, or events requiring class release.

If a student earns below 70 in any subject:

• They become ineligible for three weeks.

• Grades are rechecked after the progress period.

• Eligibility returns once all grades are passing.

Students may also lose performance eligibility for:

• ISS or OSS assignments

• Lack of preparation for performances

Pass-Offs & Playing Grades

Pass-offs and performance grades are used to assess individual progress and ensure that each student is prepared on ensemble music, technique, and fundamentals.

Pass-offs may include:

• Scales or technique exercises

• Concert music excerpts

• Rhythm reading or sight-reading

• Region or audition materials (when applicable)

Assignments will be posted in class or online and must be completed by the due date either:

• In person (during class, sectionals, or before/after school)

• Or by video submission (if allowed)

All pass-offs are graded. Students must complete pass-offs to maintain a passing average.
If a student is unable to complete a pass-off by the deadline, they must make it up within 10 school days to receive credit.

If a student consistently misses pass-offs and is unable to maintain a passing grade, they may be moved to another band placement where expectations are more appropriate for their current skill level and/or commitment.

Playing grades are based on:

• Tone quality and intonation

• Note and rhythm accuracy

• Posture, hand position, and embouchure

• Musical expression and effort

• Overall preparation

UIL Participation
UIL Concert & Sight-Reading Evaluation is a major performance and learning opportunity for our band program. Participation is expected for all eligible students in performing ensembles.

Students must meet the following expectations to participate:

• Maintain passing grades in all classes (UIL eligibility applies)

• Attend all required sectionals and rehearsals

• Complete assigned pass-offs and performance assessments

• Demonstrate consistent preparation and responsibility

If a student is not meeting expectations or is academically ineligible, they may be removed from UIL performance participation. In some cases, students may still be expected to attend as an alternate or in a support role.

UIL is a team effort. Each student plays an important role, and individual preparation directly impacts the entire ensemble’s success. Students are expected to take ownership of their part and contribute to a high-level performance.

Discipline & Travel Eligibility
Participation in off-campus band activities — including contests, festivals, and trips — is a privilege. Students are expected to demonstrate responsible behavior in all school settings, not just in the band hall.

Inappropriate behavior or discipline issues at school may result in loss of travel privileges. This includes:

• Repeated classroom disruptions

• Office referrals or suspensions

• Violations of the student code of conduct

Directors will review discipline records in coordination with campus administration when determining travel eligibility. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis with student safety, responsibility, and group integrity in mind.

Students who lose travel privileges may still be expected to complete alternative assignments or attend in a non-performing role if appropriate.

Equipment

Students are responsible for bringing instruments and materials daily.
School-owned instruments are available for larger instruments (euphonium, tuba, horn, bassoon, tenor sax, baritone sax, bass clarinet, oboe).

A signed Instrument Check-Out Form is required before a school instrument may be issued.
Students must also purchase their own mouthpiece.
Damage from neglect or misuse will be repaired at the student’s expense.

Equipment Checklist

• Instrument in working order

• Pencil and music folder

• Reeds, oils, and mutes as applicable

• Metronome and tuner for home practice

Percussionists: must own required sticks, mallets, and a home practice pad or marimba.

Instrument Care

• Label all cases clearly with your name.

• Store instruments in assigned lockers.

• Take instruments home daily.

• Show directors repair issues before taking instruments to a shop.

Percussion Stick & Mallet Requirements

Percussionists in Katy ISD are required to own their own set of sticks and mallets.
All equipment should be clearly labeled with the student’s name.
Do not borrow or lend percussion gear. Specialty sticks are provided as needed for performances.

Expectations and Consequences

Band membership carries high standards.
Students must maintain commitment, preparation, and positive behavior in all rehearsals and performances.

Failure to meet program expectations may result in:

• Suspension from a performance

• Schedule change into another elective or band placement

• Lowered grade

Students and parents are encouraged to communicate proactively with directors if challenges arise.
Our goal is to support every student’s success while maintaining the high standards of the West Memorial Junior High School Band Program.

Communication Policy

Clear and consistent communication is essential for the success of the West Memorial Junior High Band Program.

Primary Forms of Communication

• Email: The best and most reliable form of communication with directors. Parents and students are encouraged to email the directors directly for questions, absences, or concerns.

  • Emails sent after school hours will be addressed the following school day.

• Canvas: The main platform used for announcements, assignments, rehearsal updates, and performance information. Students and parents should check Canvas regularly for new posts and updated materials.

• Remind: The Remind app will be used only during off-campus events (such as contests or trips) to provide timely travel updates, including estimated arrival and dismissal times.

• School Phone: If immediate contact is needed during school hours, the directors can also be reached through their school phone extensions listed in the Contact Information section.

All other forms of communication or inquiries should go through email, Canvas, or the school phone system.
This ensures that all messages are received promptly and handled appropriately according to Katy ISD communication guidelines.

Acknowledgment

After reading this handbook, please complete the Band Handbook Acknowledgment and Travel Permission Form on Canvas.
This form confirms your understanding of program expectations, grading, attendance, and performance policies.

Band Calendar

An updated performance and rehearsal calendar will be posted on Canvas and under the Band Calender once dates are finalized.
Please check regularly for updates regarding concerts, contests, and events.

Band Director Contact Information

Mr. McReynolds (Mr. Mac)
Email: NathanialFMcreynolds@KATYISD.ORG
Phone: (281) 237-6419

Mr. Fesler
Email: RobertTFesler@KATYISD.ORG
Phone: (281) 237-6445