Info For Families

How can I contact the Band Director?

You can reach out to the Band Director at zachary.huwalt@washington.kyschools.us or via ParentSquare if you are enrolled in the district. With ParentSquare, make sure your contact information is up to date in your Infinite Campus with the school. Responses will be within 24-48 business hours. The Band Director manages all information regarding the ensembles and programs apart of Washington County Schools.

Can you do other extracurriculars outside of band?

Yes! Many of our students participate in extra-curriculars outside of band. We encourage our students to be well-rounded individuals. If there is a conflict, please reach out to the Band Director to see what can be done. If the activity in "in-season," accomodations may be arranged, if eneded. Remember band apart of a class grade so all students are still expected to attend rehearsal, events, and other performances outlined by the Band Director.

Is there a fee to join band?

Fees are essential for defraying the costs of a band program. Students enrolled in General Band/Marching Band or Modern Band have a class fee. Those fees are shown below:

• General Band/Marching Band - $250 (made in payments)

• Modern Band - $50 (due at beginning of school year)

Students enrolled in a MS band class do not have a class fee. If a family has a financial concern, please reach out to the band director as soon as possible. Finances will never be a reason why your child cannot participate in band.

Do I need to rent an instrument?

Because of limitations in instruments, all students participating in band are expected to use a personal or rental instrument. The school district utilizes Paige's Music, which manages instrument rentals for students at an affordable price. In the event a family cannot afford the rental, please reach out to the band director. An school instrument may be available, but are very limited. 

Can parents/volunteers help assist the marching band?

Yes! Parents, guardians and volunteers are welcome to assist the marching band and the other ensembles as needed upon the discretion of the Band Director. All volunteers need to have their clearances documented with the Washington County Board of Education prior to assisting. No exceptions. Individuals who wish to assist will then be reviewed upon the HS Principal, Band Director and central office. 

Please note while many parents are available to help the marching band or other ensembles, it is based upon an as-needed basis. The Band Director will work closely with the Booster Organization on who is needed to assist. 

Do I need to attend band camp to participate in marching band?

Yes. All students are required to attend band camp to be apart of the marching band. Dates and times are shared in advance. Band camp typically occur at the end of July/early August depending on the first day of school. Families should be mindful of this when creating travel plans.

I just moved to the district and want to do band. Can I join?

Yes! All students who wish to join band are more than welcome to. Usually students begin in 6th grade on their instrument and continue their way into high school. If a student joins from another district, the Band Director may ask for a proficiency test on your instrument to see what level you are at.

Are there opportunities for my student outside of the band classroom?

Yes! Within Washington County Schools, Kentucky Music Education Association, local universities/colleges and more, there are always opportunities for your student to challenge themselves with their instrument, grow and have fun. The Band Director will share events that are beneficial for the students at their appropriate level. If your child wishes to do individual lessons, reach out to Mr. Huwalt! He will put you in the right direction!

My instrument is not working correctly. What should I do?

Reach out to the Band Director ASAP to see if they can resolve the issue. Students need to make sure they treat their instrument with respect, especially any school-owned equipment. Major damages may be at the responsibility of the student to pay. If you rent an instrument through Paige's Music, your rental fee manages some damages to your student's instrument. Reach out to their office if there is a concern.

What/Who is the Band Booster Organization?

The Band Booster Organization of Washington County Schools help provide moral and financial support to all of our students across the district enrolled in a band class. Parents/guardians help manage the organization under the advice of its Executive Board and guidance from the Band Director. The boosters meet the 2nd Monday of every month at 6pm at Washington County High School.