HHSMarchingBand

2012 Marching Chiefs Attendance Policy

Student participants and parents are required to sign and return the last sheet of the

policy. Please read carefully and completely, and keep this form for your records.

The success of the Marching Chiefs is dependent upon the dedication, attendance, and appropriate behavior of all members of the group. Absences and tardiness from rehearsals have a significant effect on the band’s ability to maintain its high standards, as do negative or inappropriate behaviors. Members of the marching band  represent themselves, their parents, town, community, school, administration, staff and teachers. These policies are aimed at providing a positive working and learning environment for all students in order to attain the highest level of achievement and performance.

All rehearsals, performances, and activities listed in the calendar are

Mandatory, and the following guidelines apply:

Expectations:

·         All students are required to attend ALL practices, sectionals, games, and activities as listed on the calendar.

·         Realize that successful performances can only be achieved through effective rehearsals. Absences from rehearsals have a significant effect on the band’s ability to move ahead. Since we must perform as a complete group, it is therefore imperative that we rehearse as one.

·         It is expected that every student will behave in a manner which is respectful to other students, staff, and chaperones, from our school and others. All school rules and expectations remain in place during all rehearsals, performances, and events.

·         Please allow at least 15 minutes at the end of any scheduled rehearsal.  Times listed for rehearsal sheet describe when rehearsal is done. 

·         Preparation for rehearsals is necessary for the success of the ensemble. In order to be prepared you must have all the music memorized and continue to practice outside of rehearsal time to improve on what was addressed in rehearsal.

·         Preparation also means that you are at the field or rehearsal spot, with all the materials you need at least 5 minutes before the scheduled rehearsal time. This is something we still struggle with. Any time lost due to members not being on the field or in rehearsal will be made up at the end of rehearsal.  (In the same spirit, I will do my absolute best to never keep you longer than noted on the schedule)

Absences:

Excused absences are limited to the following:

·         Death in the family, Religious Holiday, personal illness which confines you at home. (Doctor’s note required)

·         Extenuating circumstances will be considered on a case by case basis with at least two weeks notice.

Unexcused absences include reasons not listed above. Absences due to illness

must be followed up with a note from home confirming the validity of the

absence.

Unexcused Absences

1^st offense: Student will lose field spot to an alternate for 1 performance (students still required to attend)

2^nd offense: Student to lose field spot to an alternate for the remainder of the season.  Student will not receive credit towards varsity letter

Tardiness

1^st offense:  Warning issued

2^nd offense: Student must stay after rehearsal to assist in cleanup (yard markers, podium etc.)

3^rd offense: Student will lose field spot to an alternate for 1 performance (students still required to attend)

4^th offense: Student to lose field spot to an alternate for the remainder of the season.  Student will not receive credit towards varsity letter.

If you are early, you’re on time.  If you are on time, you’re late!

Flexibility:

-If you feel that a conflict which may cause you to either miss or be late to a

rehearsal is unavoidable, see the Director as far in advance as possible. Options

can often be worked out if there is communication in advance.

Uniform Requirements

If you are going to be a Marching Chief, you will need to look like one!  As part of the group each member will be issued a uniform.  In addition, member music adhere to the following guidelines at all time when students are considered “in uniform”.

·         Students must purchase Dinkles. (marching shoes)  This will be done at the beginning of each season. 

·         All long hair needs to be pinned back or up and out of the face.  (should be above jacket collar)

·         All facial jewelry needs to be removed

·         Make-up should not be worn or kept to a bare minimum. No harsh or bright colors

·         Earrings should be kept to small stud type.  No large dangly or hoop types

Students who do not meet these expectations will forfeit his\her position in the band and lose credit towards their varsity letter.