It was wonderful to see many familiar faces and welcome new families at the parent meeting! We covered a lot of information to help everyone prepare for Band Camp and the season ahead.
📌 This is a long post but it’s packed with everything you need to know, please take a few minutes to read through to the end.
In case you missed the meeting—or just want a refresher—here’s a quick recap to keep you in the loop:
Core Guidelines
Athletic Clearance
✅ Important: Clearance must be on file and fully approved before Band Camp begins. Band Camp is mandatory for all band students.
To participate, your athletic clearance must be completed and approved before the start of camp. Students without clearance will not be allowed to join until all paperwork is in order.
Please note: Mr. C cannot view, approve, or upload any clearance documents—all approvals are handled by the Athletic Clearance Coordinator.
📄 Step-by-step instructions for completing your clearance are available on our athletic clearance page.
Band Camp Basics
Band Camp runs from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and starts promptly at 8:00 AM. Plan accordingly, arriving at 8:00 means you’re already late! Students being picked up must be picked up on time at 5:00 PM each day.
The items below are must-bring essentials for Band Camp. They’re not only key to your success, they’re required to participate safely and comfortably throughout the week:
- Sunglasses – Protect your eyes from the sun
- Hat – A wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap is a must for sun protection
- Athletic breathable clothing – No jeans, please. Choose flexible and modest attire that’s comfortable for active movement
- Great options are available in the Spirit Store
- Socks – Pack an extra pair! Marching in wet socks is no fun if the weather turns
- Athletic shoes – Supportive sneakers only
- No Crocs or sandals
- Water jug (at least half a gallon) – Must be labeled with your name
- A great option is available in the Spirit Store!
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) – Reapply throughout the day
- Bug spray – Camp is mostly outdoors
- Deodorant – Essential for long days in the sun
- Folder and pencil/pen – For music, notes, and schedules
Season Schedule
Stay in the Know – Check the Calendar
The full season schedule has been updated on our website, it’s your go-to source for all band-related dates and details. This is where the most current information will always be posted—don’t rely on email reminders alone.
The calendar outlines all major events for the season. Please take time to review and plan accordingly. If you know in advance that you’ll be unable to attend any scheduled event, it’s important that you communicate with Mr. C as early as possible. Every band member plays a vital role, and adjusting for absences takes time and preparation.
To report an absence, please fill out the Student Absence Form, which can be found on the website under the Parents section.
Want to better understand what the year looks like? Visit the Band 101 page on our website for a helpful overview of the season ahead.
How You Can Support the Band
Get Involved – Every Bit Helps!
Our band program thrives because of the incredible support from our families, and there are many ways you can be part of it. Whether you’re new to the program or a returning member, your involvement—big or small—makes a lasting impact.
🛒 Amazon Wish List – Help us stock up on essentials. Every contribution supports daily needs for our students.
🥤 Snack & Water Donations – Keep students fueled and hydrated during camp and rehearsals. Grab-and-go snacks and bottled water are always appreciated. Donations can be dropped off in the Band Room at any time.
🎺 Join the Booster Club – It’s free to join and the best way to stay connected, informed, and involved in all things band. You’ll receive timely updates and opportunities to engage.
🙌 Volunteer Your Time – From tent setup to helping behind the scenes, there’s a role for everyone. Volunteering doesn’t have to be tied to an event, there are plenty of flexible ways to contribute.
Our Band Booster organization exists to support the students and the program. We’re committed to bringing our parent community together across all languages and backgrounds. Don’t let language or scheduling be a barrier, everyone has something valuable to offer.
Booster membership is currently FREE, and ensures you’re in the know all season long. We raise funds through concessions, the Spirit Store, fundraising efforts, and business sponsorships. Most importantly 100% of proceeds go directly to your students
Fairshare
Each student has a Fair Share contribution of $400 for the school year, which supports essential costs like uniforms, bus transportation, band & show shirts, competition fees, and instructional staff (specialized coaches who are not OCPS employees).
Our total budget this year is approximately $45,000 and every contribution helps bring the season to life. For context – many other programs, even nearby, require over $1,000 per student, so we’re proud to keep our costs as low and accessible as possible.
💳 Payments should be made through SchoolPay.
While the district is transitioning systems, we have not yet switched, so please continue using SchoolPay for all band-related payments until further notice.
We never want Fair Share to be a barrier. You’re welcome to pay in full, pay as you go, or fundraise your way through. We’ll have plenty of opportunities to help cover the cost.
This is where being a Booster Club member can really help, it’s free to join and connects you with everything you need to stay on top of band life including fundraising options.
If you have questions or need flexibility, don’t hesitate to reach out, we’re here to work with you!