Excused Absences for Rehearsals
There are many puzzle pieces that must fit together correctly in order to have a successful band program that students and parents can enjoy and be proud to be a part of. One of those puzzle pieces is student attendance at all rehearsals and performances. This is an extremely important piece because band is a team activity and when any one person is missing it negatively affects all of the other members. The reason for this is because at band rehearsals students are learning how their parts and marching fit with everyone else. This is not something that students can learn at home, no matter how much they practice. The individual may be able to succeed on his own, but until they and the people around them learn how to make things fit together, the puzzle cannot be completed.
Please take a moment to review the attendance policy in the band handbook. Whenever a student misses a band event whether it is a rehearsal or performance, we need documentation from a parent indicating the reason for the absence. We really appreciate those parents who have already contacted us about potential conflicts. With proper communication and plenty of advance notice, we are able to work it out. Please understand that not all rehearsals are excused even if we receive notification. The reason for the absence is taken under consideration.
From time to time, students will become ill. If they are sent home from school by the nurse, we ask that they have the nurse email Mr. Williams letting him know. If the student is too ill to attend Saturday practice, a doctor’s (or urgent care clinic) note is required for the absence to be excused.
When students sign up for band, they have made a commitment to adhere to the rehearsal schedule set forth. When we all work together, great things can happen!