KWHS Band London Videos

KWHS Band London Documentary/Videos released:

On May 8th, 2024, The Tropic Cinema premiered the documentary "Key West High School Marching Conchs in London." This film documents the KWHS Marching Band’s incredible performance during the 2024 London New Year’s Day Parade and is the product of of KWHS Conch 5 Studios Teacher and Executive Producer Ed Smith, along with three talented Student Producers: Will Forster, Valeria Juarez, and Monika Jaroszewicz. Conch Pride played a crucial role in making this happen, as the community raised over $400,000 to send 78 students and 10 chaperones to the event. Congratulations are in order for Band Director Gary Hernandez and the remarkable Key West High School Band, as well as for lead fundraisers Jamie Strunk and Rebecca Deem, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Special thanks to Chris and Carla Sloan of 2C Media for sponsoring the film’s production, and to Carla Turner and her team at The Tropic Cinema for hosting free screenings and everyone in the Conch community that supported this exceptional trip.

Band CalendarWebsiteAnnouncement BlogRemind101 Txts

KWHS Band Through End of Year+

Hello!

Congrats to everyone who performed at State Solo & Ensemble! Our optional spring band trip has been approved by the School Board, see the attached permission slip or pick one up from the band room, due by 12:00pm, Monday April 15. Please see the information below (largely a description of events on the Band Calendar), it includes summer opportunities, band camp info, and next year’s calendar. Our final concert is coming up, please promote! Have a look at next year’s calendar, you will see all dates for events in 2024-2025.

Upcoming Event Info:

*Tuesdays-Brass, Wednesdays-Percussion, Thursdays-Woodwind Sectionals 2:45pm-4:00pm. *Required for a grade, Google form (Remind link) for excusal, make up assignments are due by the following week. All Winds/Percussion will rehearse together at 2:45pm on the date of the Concert, April 25th.

*Sunday, April 21, Drum Line & Colorguard at Cancer Foundation Fundraiser at the Southernmost House. Report to First State Bank on Simonton Street by 12:30pm, 1:00pm performance. Wear your red band shirt and grey shorts, any closed toe shoes. Colorguard performs at 2:00pm, report to the Southernmost House by 1:45pm, attire according to Ms. Karen. Be sure all instruments/flags are packed on the truck Friday.

*Individual band photos, Date TBD during class time. Marching Uniforms for everyone, Jazz Band=Concert Attire. If you miss class, come during another period.

*Thursday, April 25th at 7:00pm: FINAL BAND CONCERT! Arrive to dress in uniform by 6:30pm (find your uniform parts now). Please drop off individually wrapped baked goods by 6:00pm. Sign up to volunteer at: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4CA8A92BA6FECE9-49029827-final

*Spring Band trip, May 3-5. See attached permission slip for all info.

*TBD May 10 or 11 Jazz Band Performance Downtown KW/Sunset.

*Thursday, May 2nd 6:00pm Band Banquet @KWHS. Awards and recognition will be held in the auditorium after dinner. Music/dancing in the band room after. Parent help needed with food setup, sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4CA8A92BA6FECE9-49030000-band

**More info on the Google RSVP Form-all students need to RSVP: https://forms.gle/NFxfvEcv5pJ97P7h7

*Grades 9th-11th see below about Leadership 2024-25: April 29-May 2 Officer Interviews. Sign up on the band office door for a time. Drum Major Auditions & Officer Elections held on Tuesday, May 7th from 2:45-4:00pm.

*Monday, May 6th, 5:30pm Band Parent meeting-Selecting band parent board officers for the next year. Please email me if you would like to be considered for a position. They are listed in the KWHS Band Handbook on page 24/25. All positions are open since none were filled for this year. All help is greatly appreciated! ***We need everyone to step-up this coming year to provide our students the best possible experience.***

Wednesday, May 15th

*Colorguard Auditions 5:30pm in auditorium.

*Icebreaker 6:30pm-all new and returning members/parents meet and greet + dinner.

*May 23rd Graduation rehearsal (time TBD-usually early evening between 5-7:30pm). More specific info to follow, held at Stadium on Kennedy Drive.

*May 24th Graduation Performance. Report by 6:00pm (stadium).

*KWHS Marching Band Camp: July 29th Leadership, July 30th Percussion/Colorguard start, and July 31 (everyone) weekdays through August 9th. Band Calendar

Other optional camps for all members:

https://pennyscamp.com/ (Colorguard, Leadership, & Percussion)

https://performingarts.cah.ucf.edu/camps/ (UCF Camps)

http://www.music.fsu.edu/summermusiccamps (Leadership, Band, Etc.)

http://www.stetson.edu/music/community/camps-and-festivals.php (Stetson Summer Music Camps-instrumental)

http://www.youngmusicianscamp.com/ (University of Miami Music Camps)

http://www.flsouthern.edu/academics/schools/school-of-arts-sciences/departments/music-department/band-camp.aspx (Band camp at Florida Southern)

There are many others throughout the nation. Here is a music camp directory for the entire country: http://theinstrumentalist.com/pages/The-Instrumentalist/2023-Directory-of-Summer-Camps/#Florida_

2024-2025 Band Student Leadership Info

Please see the info below from the band handbook about band leadership requirements and selection for next year. We will have interviews May 2nd through 6th and will have elections and drum major auditions on Tuesday May 9th after school from 2:45-4:00pm. Please sign up for an interview time on the band office door, no application needed.

All positions will be required to give a brief speech, less than 45 seconds. See below the signature for info about all leadership positions.

*Drum major audition:

Conduct this piece with appropriate cues, patterns and dynamic contrast: https://youtu.be/3kG_VRNZmGg?si=WtaPVPiuvXkD9vSE

Be prepared to call attention and parade rest.

Additional Leadership Info:

*All Band Members are LEADERS in making good choices within their lives, in band, on campus throughout the school day and in our community.*

Student leadership is the most vital part of a successful band program. What we do can only be done well if we have everyone onboard with our shared aspirations and goals. Always do your best and never have any regrets. Your actions today sow the seeds of our future leaders; we are all connected throughout the history of our band program. Never underestimate the power of your words and actions. Your service to the band will benefit you for years to come with the leadership experience gained.

The following are expectations, eligibility requirements, responsibilities and descriptions of the leadership positions:

Expectations of All Positions

· Serve as model band student in all aspects of performance and attitude.

· Promote Band spirit and morale whenever and wherever possible.

· Maintain a constant sense of service to the band program.

· Be prepared to assist with teaching marching and music skills throughout the year.

· Help to maintain discipline (appropriate behavioral choices) within the band.

· Arrive at rehearsals and performances prior to all other members of the band to help set up and remain after until all work is completed.

· Attend all band officer meetings.

· Act as a liaison between the director and students.

Requirements to be an Officer

***Grades will be checked at the end of the semester. You may be removed from your officer position if you fail to meet these requirements.***

Students must:

· Have and maintain an un-weighted 2.5 GPA or greater with no failures in any class for the past academic year (semester).

· Have, no or pending, disciplinary action at KWHS for the past academic year.

· Attend all officer leadership camps, regular band camps and rehearsals with no unexcused absences.

· Be willing and able to serve for the entire upcoming school year.

Failure to meet or maintain any of these requirements will result in ineligibility and/or removal from the position.

Responsibilities and Descriptions

Band Captain-President (1)

· Is the foremost student leader of the band who leads through example at all times.

· May run rehearsals at the behest of the bandmaster.

· Oversees and assesses the duties and functions of all officers and proactively assures that all responsibilities are being carried out.

· May break rank only when necessary to carry out duties.

· First to enter the field,and the last to leave it.

· Schedules and presides over band officer meetings.

· Reports daily to the bandmaster concerning the morale of the band.

· Mandatory attendance at a Music/Leadership Camp.

· May not miss rehearsals or performances for optional school related activities.

Drum Major-Marching Band Conductor (1)

· Conductor for all marching band rehearsals & performances.

· Responsibilities include memorization of all scores exhibited musically with a discernible conducting pattern that maintains a steady pulse.

· Functions as the morale leader of the band at all rehearsals and performances encouraging all members to constantly perform at their best.

· Mandatory attendance at a Music/Drum Major Camp.

· May not miss rehearsals or performances for optional school related activities.

Assistant Drum Major (As needed)

· Same as Drum Major.

· May be a regular performing member and function as a field conductor as needed.

· Coordinates all public relations with the band director, parents, community and the school at large.

· Other duties as assigned by the band director.

· Mandatory attendance at a Music/Drum Major Camp.

· May not miss rehearsals or performances for optional school related activities.

1st LIEUTENANT-Personnel Manager (1)

· In charge taking attendance at all outside of school rehearsals and performances.

· Oversees section leaders, assists the director in supervising sectionals, and assesses their teaching.

· Responsible for stage setup for all concerts.

· Assumes the role of band captain in his/her absence.

· Strongly suggested attendance at a Music/Leadership Camp.

2nd LIEUTENANT-Equipment Manager (1)

· Coordinates all equipment transport with section leaders, parents & director.

· Responsible for instrument check-out/check-in.

· Responsible for the care and maintenance of instruments.

· Assists 1st Lieutenant with stage setup.

Strongly suggested attendance at a Music/Leadership Camp.

Section Leaders-Teachers (Assistant Section Leaders as needed)

· Must be model band students and know their music, marching, and be able to conduct sectionals.

· Assist individual members within their sections with all aspects of band.

· Assist the Band Director during inspections.

· Color Guard Captain – Mandatory attendance at a Leadership/Flag Camp.

· Section Leaders – Strongly suggested attendance at a Music/Leadership Camp.

Chief Quartermaster-All Rehearsal Facilities Manager (1)

· Duties include making sure band members keep all rehearsal facilities clean and organized.

· Oversees/aids the quartermasters.

· Bus 1 Captain for all band trips responsible for seating charts and bus cleanliness.

Quartermaster-Locker Room Facilities Manager (1)

· Duties include checking out/in lockers and locks.

· Responsible for maintaining order and cleanliness of the locker room facilities. The locker room floor must be clear of all items at all times & all personal items found will be placed in lost & found and must be claimed by Friday of that school week before being discarded.

· Must conduct random lock checks to ensure security of personal and band-owned equipment.

· Bus 2 Captain for all band trips responsible for seating charts and bus cleanliness.

Quartermaster-Concert & Marching Uniform Manager (1-3)

· Duties include fitting, repairing, organizing and collecting uniforms for cleaning.

· Responsible for communicating the correct way to care for and wear the uniform.

· Responsible for communicating the uniform needs of the band to the director.

· Must be prepared to fix uniforms at all times (sewing kits, extra buttons, etc.).

· Will maintain a list of uniform infractions at all inspections.

· Bus 3 Captain for all band trips responsible for seating charts and bus cleanliness.

Quartermaster-Special Effects & Props Coordinator (Marching & Concert) (1)

· Duties include designing, building, coordinating and securing materials for props or special effects to enhance the theatrical effect of the performance area for all band performances.

· Recruit a team of band member volunteers to assist with duties.

Quartermaster-Technology Manager (1-2)

· In charge of audio and video recording for all marching and concert band performances and classes requested by band director.

· Responsible for basic editing, mastering, and transfer of audio and video files to band server/hard drive.

· Setting up of long ranger for rehearsals/games.

· Updates the Director with new ways to incorporate technology.

Librarians-Current Year (Jazz, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band) (3)

· In charge of all activities related to the band sheet music and music library.

· Duties include distributing, collecting, organizing, copying, documenting and filing music.

· Librarian must communicate to the Band Director the sheet music needs of the band.

· Must be assigned as a student assistant in addition to a regular band class.

Librarians-Restoration (1-2)

· In charge of restoring order to all pieces not currently in use.

· Duties include organizing, score ordering, attaining missing parts, cataloguing and filing music.

· Must be assigned as a student assistant in addition to a regular band class.

Historian (1-2)

· In charge of documenting (taking pictures and video) of every band event for the entire year.

· Prepares a photo video for the Band Banquet.

· Create a digital archive of all band historical documents for the current year and previous years.

Band CalendarWebsiteAnnouncement BlogRemind101 Txts

Optional Spring Band Trip Permission 2024.pdf

KWHS Band Through End of Year+

Hello!

Congrats to everyone who performed at State Solo & Ensemble! Our optional spring band trip has been approved by the School Board, see the attached permission slip or pick one up from the band room, due by 12:00pm, Monday April 15. Please see the information below (largely a description of events on the Band Calendar), it includes summer opportunities, band camp info, and next year’s calendar. Our final concert is coming up, please promote! Have a look at next year’s calendar, you will see all dates for events in 2024-2025.

Upcoming Event Info:

*Tuesdays-Brass, Wednesdays-Percussion, Thursdays-Woodwind Sectionals 2:45pm-4:00pm. *Required for a grade, Google form (Remind link) for excusal, make up assignments are due by the following week. All Winds/Percussion will rehearse together at 2:45pm on the date of the Concert, April 25th.

*Sunday, April 21, Drum Line & Colorguard at Cancer Foundation Fundraiser at the Southernmost House. Report to First State Bank on Simonton Street by 12:30pm, 1:00pm performance. Wear your red band shirt and grey shorts, any closed toe shoes. Colorguard performs at 2:00pm, report to the Southernmost House by 1:45pm, attire according to Ms. Karen. Be sure all instruments/flags are packed on the truck Friday.

*Individual band photos, Date TBD during class time. Marching Uniforms for everyone, Jazz Band=Concert Attire. If you miss class, come during another period.

*Thursday, April 25th at 7:00pm: FINAL BAND CONCERT! Arrive to dress in uniform by 6:30pm (find your uniform parts now). Please drop off individually wrapped baked goods by 6:00pm. Sign up to volunteer at: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4CA8A92BA6FECE9-49029827-final

*Spring Band trip, May 3-5. See attached permission slip for all info.

*TBD May 10 or 11 Jazz Band Performance Downtown KW/Sunset.

*Thursday, May 2nd 6:00pm Band Banquet @KWHS. Awards and recognition will be held in the auditorium after dinner. Music/dancing in the band room after. Parent help needed with food setup, sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4CA8A92BA6FECE9-49030000-band

**More info on the Google RSVP Form-all students need to RSVP: https://forms.gle/NFxfvEcv5pJ97P7h7

*Grades 9th-11th see below about Leadership 2024-25: April 29-May 2 Officer Interviews. Sign up on the band office door for a time. Drum Major Auditions & Officer Elections held on Tuesday, May 7th from 2:45-4:00pm.

*Monday, May 6th, 5:30pm Band Parent meeting-Selecting band parent board officers for the next year. Please email me if you would like to be considered for a position. They are listed in the KWHS Band Handbook on page 24/25. All positions are open since none were filled for this year. All help is greatly appreciated! ***We need everyone to step-up this coming year to provide our students the best possible experience.***

Wednesday, May 15th

*Colorguard Auditions 5:30pm in auditorium.

*Icebreaker 6:30pm-all new and returning members/parents meet and greet + dinner.

*May 23rd Graduation rehearsal (time TBD-usually early evening between 5-7:30pm). More specific info to follow, held at Stadium on Kennedy Drive.

*May 24th Graduation Performance. Report by 6:00pm (stadium).

*KWHS Marching Band Camp: July 29th Leadership, July 30th Percussion/Colorguard start, and July 31 (everyone) weekdays through August 9th. Band Calendar

Other optional camps for all members:

https://pennyscamp.com/ (Colorguard, Leadership, & Percussion)

https://performingarts.cah.ucf.edu/camps/ (UCF Camps)

http://www.music.fsu.edu/summermusiccamps (Leadership, Band, Etc.)

http://www.stetson.edu/music/community/camps-and-festivals.php (Stetson Summer Music Camps-instrumental)

http://www.youngmusicianscamp.com/ (University of Miami Music Camps)

http://www.flsouthern.edu/academics/schools/school-of-arts-sciences/departments/music-department/band-camp.aspx (Band camp at Florida Southern)

There are many others throughout the nation. Here is a music camp directory for the entire country: http://theinstrumentalist.com/pages/The-Instrumentalist/2023-Directory-of-Summer-Camps/#Florida_

2024-2025 Band Student Leadership Info

Please see the info below from the band handbook about band leadership requirements and selection for next year. We will have interviews May 2nd through 6th and will have elections and drum major auditions on Tuesday May 9th after school from 2:45-4:00pm. Please sign up for an interview time on the band office door, no application needed.

All positions will be required to give a brief speech, less than 45 seconds. See below the signature for info about all leadership positions.

*Drum major audition:

Conduct this piece with appropriate cues, patterns and dynamic contrast: https://youtu.be/3kG_VRNZmGg?si=WtaPVPiuvXkD9vSE

Be prepared to call attention and parade rest.

Additional Leadership Info:

*All Band Members are LEADERS in making good choices within their lives, in band, on campus throughout the school day and in our community.*

Student leadership is the most vital part of a successful band program. What we do can only be done well if we have everyone onboard with our shared aspirations and goals. Always do your best and never have any regrets. Your actions today sow the seeds of our future leaders; we are all connected throughout the history of our band program. Never underestimate the power of your words and actions. Your service to the band will benefit you for years to come with the leadership experience gained.

The following are expectations, eligibility requirements, responsibilities and descriptions of the leadership positions:

Expectations of All Positions

· Serve as model band student in all aspects of performance and attitude.

· Promote Band spirit and morale whenever and wherever possible.

· Maintain a constant sense of service to the band program.

· Be prepared to assist with teaching marching and music skills throughout the year.

· Help to maintain discipline (appropriate behavioral choices) within the band.

· Arrive at rehearsals and performances prior to all other members of the band to help set up and remain after until all work is completed.

· Attend all band officer meetings.

· Act as a liaison between the director and students.

Requirements to be an Officer

***Grades will be checked at the end of the semester. You may be removed from your officer position if you fail to meet these requirements.***

Students must:

· Have and maintain an un-weighted 2.5 GPA or greater with no failures in any class for the past academic year (semester).

· Have, no or pending, disciplinary action at KWHS for the past academic year.

· Attend all officer leadership camps, regular band camps and rehearsals with no unexcused absences.

· Be willing and able to serve for the entire upcoming school year.

Failure to meet or maintain any of these requirements will result in ineligibility and/or removal from the position.

Responsibilities and Descriptions

Band Captain-President (1)

· Is the foremost student leader of the band who leads through example at all times.

· May run rehearsals at the behest of the bandmaster.

· Oversees and assesses the duties and functions of all officers and proactively assures that all responsibilities are being carried out.

· May break rank only when necessary to carry out duties.

· First to enter the field,and the last to leave it.

· Schedules and presides over band officer meetings.

· Reports daily to the bandmaster concerning the morale of the band.

· Mandatory attendance at a Music/Leadership Camp.

· May not miss rehearsals or performances for optional school related activities.

Drum Major-Marching Band Conductor (1)

· Conductor for all marching band rehearsals & performances.

· Responsibilities include memorization of all scores exhibited musically with a discernible conducting pattern that maintains a steady pulse.

· Functions as the morale leader of the band at all rehearsals and performances encouraging all members to constantly perform at their best.

· Mandatory attendance at a Music/Drum Major Camp.

· May not miss rehearsals or performances for optional school related activities.

Assistant Drum Major (As needed)

· Same as Drum Major.

· May be a regular performing member and function as a field conductor as needed.

· Coordinates all public relations with the band director, parents, community and the school at large.

· Other duties as assigned by the band director.

· Mandatory attendance at a Music/Drum Major Camp.

· May not miss rehearsals or performances for optional school related activities.

1st LIEUTENANT-Personnel Manager (1)

· In charge taking attendance at all outside of school rehearsals and performances.

· Oversees section leaders, assists the director in supervising sectionals, and assesses their teaching.

· Responsible for stage setup for all concerts.

· Assumes the role of band captain in his/her absence.

· Strongly suggested attendance at a Music/Leadership Camp.

2nd LIEUTENANT-Equipment Manager (1)

· Coordinates all equipment transport with section leaders, parents & director.

· Responsible for instrument check-out/check-in.

· Responsible for the care and maintenance of instruments.

· Assists 1st Lieutenant with stage setup.

Strongly suggested attendance at a Music/Leadership Camp.

Section Leaders-Teachers (Assistant Section Leaders as needed)

· Must be model band students and know their music, marching, and be able to conduct sectionals.

· Assist individual members within their sections with all aspects of band.

· Assist the Band Director during inspections.

· Color Guard Captain – Mandatory attendance at a Leadership/Flag Camp.

· Section Leaders – Strongly suggested attendance at a Music/Leadership Camp.

Chief Quartermaster-All Rehearsal Facilities Manager (1)

· Duties include making sure band members keep all rehearsal facilities clean and organized.

· Oversees/aids the quartermasters.

· Bus 1 Captain for all band trips responsible for seating charts and bus cleanliness.

Quartermaster-Locker Room Facilities Manager (1)

· Duties include checking out/in lockers and locks.

· Responsible for maintaining order and cleanliness of the locker room facilities. The locker room floor must be clear of all items at all times & all personal items found will be placed in lost & found and must be claimed by Friday of that school week before being discarded.

· Must conduct random lock checks to ensure security of personal and band-owned equipment.

· Bus 2 Captain for all band trips responsible for seating charts and bus cleanliness.

Quartermaster-Concert & Marching Uniform Manager (1-3)

· Duties include fitting, repairing, organizing and collecting uniforms for cleaning.

· Responsible for communicating the correct way to care for and wear the uniform.

· Responsible for communicating the uniform needs of the band to the director.

· Must be prepared to fix uniforms at all times (sewing kits, extra buttons, etc.).

· Will maintain a list of uniform infractions at all inspections.

· Bus 3 Captain for all band trips responsible for seating charts and bus cleanliness.

Quartermaster-Special Effects & Props Coordinator (Marching & Concert) (1)

· Duties include designing, building, coordinating and securing materials for props or special effects to enhance the theatrical effect of the performance area for all band performances.

· Recruit a team of band member volunteers to assist with duties.

Quartermaster-Technology Manager (1-2)

· In charge of audio and video recording for all marching and concert band performances and classes requested by band director.

· Responsible for basic editing, mastering, and transfer of audio and video files to band server/hard drive.

· Setting up of long ranger for rehearsals/games.

· Updates the Director with new ways to incorporate technology.

Librarians-Current Year (Jazz, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band) (3)

· In charge of all activities related to the band sheet music and music library.

· Duties include distributing, collecting, organizing, copying, documenting and filing music.

· Librarian must communicate to the Band Director the sheet music needs of the band.

· Must be assigned as a student assistant in addition to a regular band class.

Librarians-Restoration (1-2)

· In charge of restoring order to all pieces not currently in use.

· Duties include organizing, score ordering, attaining missing parts, cataloguing and filing music.

· Must be assigned as a student assistant in addition to a regular band class.

Historian (1-2)

· In charge of documenting (taking pictures and video) of every band event for the entire year.

· Prepares a photo video for the Band Banquet.

· Create a digital archive of all band historical documents for the current year and previous years.

Band CalendarWebsiteAnnouncement BlogRemind101 Txts

Optional Spring Band Trip Permission 2024.pdf

Upcoming Band Events

Good morning,

Please see below for reminder info about events and times already on our band calendar and syllabus.

*S&E students qualifying for State S&E will need to return the permission slip being sent home today, this will be an overnight trip March 25-26.

*Wednesday, March 6th KWHS Hosting Concert MPA. Symphonic band reports back at 2:35pm, performs at 3:30pm. Wind Ensemble reports at 4:45pm and performs at 5:30pm. We need student crews to work the sight-reading room, to be band guides, and to set the stage for each of the bands performing (our two plus three visiting).

Survey for trips:

*Spring Band Trip 2024-we are considering changing the possible dates to May 3-4-5, keep in mind that every weekend has some school event occurring and this new weekend option will coincide with the Fashion show. Please let me know if this changes your response to the survey. Only complete this survey if you are interested in attending: https://forms.gle/ui3neRK6P4rDoRod7

*After spring break, we will be trying out a new sequence of after school rehearsals, a.k.a. the sectional approach. A more detailed email will follow for these required after school practice sessions. Please see the band calendar for these and future dates for planning purposes (vacations/doctors appointments etc.).

Best,

Band CalendarWebsiteAnnouncement BlogRemind101 Txts

HB 379 No Cell Phone Flyer

Please see the attached and the email from our Principal concerning Florida Statute 1006.07(2)(f) concerning Cell Phones.

*All band class require cell phones to be kept in the student’s backpack or band locker and made silent during class/rehearsal time. Digital tuners will be provided.

Band CalendarWebsiteAnnouncement BlogRemind101 Txts

From: Rebecca Palomino <Rebecca.Palomino@KeysSchools.com>
Sent: Thursday, February 15, 2024 11:05 AM
To: KWH-Teachers <KWH-Teachers@KeysSchools.com>; KWH-Staff <KWH-Staff@KeysSchools.com>
Subject: HB 379 No Cell Phone Flyer

Good Morning,

You will find in your mailboxes a laminated HB 379 Flyer to post in your classrooms (see attached). As you know, this has been in effect all school year, but both teachers and admin are noticing an influx of phones in classes leading to distractions and lack of engagment.

Please ensure the following:

  • No Cell Phones during instructional time; instructional time should be bell-to-bell; therefore, no cell phones out during class periods.
  • Designate where cell phones should be during class:
    • Acceptable: in backpacks/purses out of sight or cell phone chart/basket (in a secure location).
    • Unacceptable: pants/hoodie/jacket pocket; desktop
  • If you give permission for a student to use a phone "solely for educational purposes," you must monitor that they are using it as intended; this should not be a free for all.

Consequence Protocol if a student has a phone out during class without permission:

  • Teacher can request to hold on to phone until the end of the class period.
    • If student refuses – call for admin assistance; admin can hold until the end of the day.
      • If student refuses – parent will be notified; may result in further consequences.

Should you have any questions or need support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your department leader and/or administration.

If you need a phone chart (see below) let me know.

Loghot Numbered Classroom Sundries Closet Pocket Chart for Cell Phones Holder Wall Door Hanging Organizer (36 Pockets Blue)

Here are some articles that may be of interest relating to the topic.

Education Week: Cellphone Bans Can Ease Students’ Stress and Anxiety, Educators Say

?url=https%3A%2F%2Fepe-brightspot.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2F5a%2F5a%2Fcec08a8a4b0eaea4a960da9fcb76%2F092823-cell-phone-bans-2-ap-bs.jpg Cellphone Bans Can Ease Students’ Stress and Anxiety, Educators Say

Minimizing distractions has been a common motivation for schools to limit phone use, but improving students’ mental health has been another.

www.edweek.org

neaToday: Cellphone Bans in SchoolAare Back. How Far Will They Go?

cell_phones_banning.jpg?itok=-bVdnotb Cellphone Bans in School Are Back. How Far Will They Go? | NEA

More schools are moving to limit or outright ban the use of cellphones inside and outside the classroom. What do educators have to say?

www.nea.org

The New York Times: Should Schools Ban Cellphones?

00cellphone-bans-gtbv-facebookJumbo.jpg Should Schools Ban Cellphones?

Rules restricting when students can use phones are on the rise. Do they work? Are they fair?

www.nytimes.com

Sincerely,

Rebecca Palomino, Ed.S.

Key West High School Principal

2100 Flagler Ave

Key West, FL 33040

(305) 293-1549 Ext 54301

HB 379 No Cell Phone Flyer.pdf

S&E/Jazz MPA

Congratulations to all of the students who performed at the Florida Bandmasters Association’s Solo & Ensemble & Jazz Band Music Performance Assessment this past weekend held at KWHS! 67 S&E Superior Medals were earned, the Colorguard Ensemble received a Superior rating and is headed to State, 6 instrumental soloists are headed to state, and our Jazz Band received a Straight Superior Rating. Go Conchs!

Band CalendarWebsiteAnnouncement BlogRemind101 Txts

Hotel Rooms Needed

Hello,

We have locally held Music Performance Assessments with out-of-town adjudicators and All County Band clinicians to put up in Hotels each year. We rely on any connections that you may have with local businesses to help secure an affordable rate, this keeps our costs down for participation in several ways and allows us to keep these events local in the Keys. Please let me know ASAP if you have any leads.

*All County Band Clinicians

2 rooms needed each night:

· Three nights in Key West February 1,2,3

*FBA Solo & Ensemble Adjudicators

3 rooms each night:

· Two nights Key West February 9 & 10. Possibly split middle Keys Friday and then KW Saturday…

*Concert MPA Adjudicators

5 rooms only one night:

· One night Key West March 6th.

Thank you!

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Upcoming Events/Concerts/Solo & Ensemble

Good afternoon,

I hope that everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving break! We have our final parade on Saturday, Dec. 2nd, and our winter/holiday concerts are quickly approaching. *London trip info at the very end of this email, please read. Please see the info below, largely reminders with a few updated points of detail with volunteer signup links. Band Calendar

November 18

*Drum Line Performance at Sunset Key. Please arrive at the band room to put on your marching uniform by 5:10pm, leaving KWHS by 5:20pm. Dinner will be provided; we will return to KWHS around 8:15pm. —-We need one approved adult driver to drive the truck, please email ASAP if you can do this.

November 28th, December 7th, December 12th

*Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Percussion & Colorguard Rehearsals 2:50-4:30pm (includes percussion)-11:45am on early release on Dec. 7th.

December 2nd (Saturday)

*City Holiday Parade: ***Meet at Bayview Park. Report by 6:00pm to dress in formal uniforms. Students will need to wear their RED band shirt, band issued grey shorts, black socks, and black band issued marching shoes-we will then put on formal uniforms. You may decorate your instrument within reason (you must still be able to play at the same time). We will also wear red holiday hats, if you have your own you can use it or one of the band provided hats. Step off is at 7:00pm, we should be near 5th in the parade again this year. Chaperones, please wear your red shirts as well, sign up via to walk with us: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4CA8A92BA6FECE9-44485729-city

December 12th

*Full Band Program Run-through Rehearsal: 2:45am-4:00pm with Choir. We will start with Act 2 mass concert band comprised of Wind ens, Sym Band, and Percussion. We will finish the rehearsal with Act 1 that includes Colorguard, Percussion, & Jazz band. Dismissal will be staggered according performance order etc.

December 13th and 14th

*Combined Winter Concerts: Call time for both concerts is 6:30pm, be seated in uniform by 6:45 if you are not performing in the first half. Sym Band and Wind Ens do not need instruments until after intermission. We will need donations of baked goods and sodas for both concerts, please drop baked goods off by 6:30pm and sodas to the band room beforehand if possible. We have had as many as 800+ attend this concert night in the past, spread the word. We will be assisting with running the concession and door donations both nights this year:

Sign up:

-Dec. 13: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4CA8A92BA6FECE9-44485731-holidaywinter

-Dec. 14: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4CA8A92BA6FECE9-44485782-holidaywinter

January 7th (Start of their season)

*Impromptu Concerts are FREE for students. You can read about concerts put on by Impromptu here: http://www.keywestimpromptu.org/concerts/season/2024-season

***Solo & Ensemble on Saturday, February 10th (Prepare Now!):

• This is an exceptional opportunity to grow as a musician and show off your talent on your instrument in a small ensemble setting or with a solo with piano accompaniment. The musical growth gained by preparing a solo at a high level can advance a student 1-2 years in terms of ability level in a matter of two months as compared to those who do not participate. WE HIGHLY ENCOURAGE EVERYONE TO GO FOR IT regardless of their perceived ability level!

•Solo and Ensemble is a Florida Bandmasters Association music assessment event held at KWHS that is adjudicated by an individual FBA judge.

•All Colorguard students will be required to prepare a solo, music will be selected with Mr. Hernandez/Coach Karen. This event is held the same day at Key West High School. This is in addition to the Winter Guard show (ensemble).

• ALL students are encouraged to participate; it is required of juniors & seniors to receive honors credit (raises weighted GPA etc.). Any student interested in a leadership position for the next school year must participate. All 9th-10th graders are absolutely encouraged to participate, selecting a grade 3 would be appropriate unless taking private lessons.

• Music must be selected off of the FBA Solo & Ensemble list, click this link: https://flmusiced.org/MPAOnline/MusicList/SEMusicList.aspx

• Students must play a grade 3 or higher and brass/woodwind/mallet solos must be on Smart Music or you must copy the piano part for your accompanist & place in the basket in the office with your name on it. List of solos that may be in SmartMusic (we may not own these, however you may purchase them): https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1_PGo5dG2y-kxpf_EmdswTnfyFqV_MKCPBSHGd3E8cKk/edit?usp=sharing

· NO, you may not play a piece of music that you have played before for S&E another year.

• Music should be ordered now to begin working on it in the next three weeks. Some sheet music vendors: www.jwpepper.com & www.hickeys.com Make sure that the composer/arranger/edition/publisher* are the same as the one on the FBA list before you complete your order. Please NUMBER all measures and parts of YOUR MUSIC, this ORIGINAL is to be given to the adjudicator to read from and verifies that the piece is owned by you or the band for Copyright purposes. If your piece is “backordered”, cancel the order and find another piece or go to another vendor (company) that has it “in stock”. Do not sign up to play a piece of music that you do not have in your hands, every year we have a few students fail because of this, there are hundreds of options. The band program owns a several solos for each instrument; however, they may not be complete and you should make sure that we also have the piano part. This band owned music is setup in the room like a book fair, please put it back in the same correct place after you make a copy, do not take the original.

•FBA Rule/Requirement: Please NUMBER all measures and parts of YOUR MUSIC, this ORIGINAL is to be given to the adjudicator to read from and verifies that the piece is owned by you or the band for Copyright purposes.

• The grading system (difficulty level of each piece) is from 1-7, high school students must play a level 3 or higher.

• 9th-10th graders should be at a level 3, 11th-12th 4 or higher. If you wish to advance to the state level you must receive a superior rating at district while playing a 5 or higher. It is not recommended that you play anything higher than a 5 unless you are taking private lessons on your instrument. Students may play in both a solo and ensemble entry but should not do more than two.

· No ensemble will be approved without auditioning first for Mr. Hernandez. If the group fails to pass this audition, you will have to play a solo as required.

• Students will receive a medal signifying their accomplishment if they receive a superior rating.

• Most solos require a piano accompaniment. Students may use SmartMusic (a computer program) or use one of the band provided accompanists. You will need to check to see if your piece of music is in SmartMusic before purchasing/committing to it. You can check this by logging into the ClearTouch in the band office.

•There is a fee to be judged and the band program covers this as long as you attend the event etc.

• You will need to let Mr. Hernandez know the piece title, accompanist (only if you are not using the school provided accompanist), and other persons in the ensemble by December 14th using this Google Form: https://forms.gle/KC2oyYtmWu2nYSZE7

London Trip:

Here is the itinerary and presentation that was sent via Remind on Tuesday: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1njFvInR2LqUj5ggxgH7ppNCk3h8G8hPE/view?usp=sharing

***We will have a NEW London Rehearsal on Monday, December 11th. This will be the final rehearsal; all others are canceled due to shipping date of instruments/equipment. We will likely have another meeting the week of the 18th to distribute clothing items etc.

Thank you,

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Band info through Thanksgiving Break

Good afternoon,

Congratulations to the Marching Conchs for earning an overall Superior at Marching Band MPA this past weekend! Please see the info about band events for the next several weeks:

Tue./Thur., Oct. 24 & 26

*Marching Band After School Rehearsals. Rehearsals will conclude when objectives are met + senior speeches.

Thursday, Oct. 26

*Pep Rally during school. Wear your Red Band Shirt to School Thursday.

Friday, Oct. 27

*Homecoming Football Game:

-Everyone, all standard game info (see older emails), wear your show shirt.

-Volunteer needs for game: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4CA8A92BA6FECE9-44485286-football#/

Sunday, Oct. 29

**Children’s Day Fundraiser and Performances at Bayview Park, Key West:

-Drumline Performance at 12:30pm, arrive by 12:00pm wearing your red band shirt and grey shorts.

-Colorguard Performance at TBD, arrive by TBD wearing your show shirt & black jazz pants and guard shoes. (Times will be sent via Remind ASAP).

-Jazz Band Performance at 3:30pm, arrive by 2:45pm for setup wearing your red band shirt and grey shorts.

-Full band fundraiser: we are selling pork sandwiches, soft pretzels, frozen drinks, popcorn, and Children’s Day T-shirts at our booth. The band owns 3 10’x20’ tents, we will need help setting these up, filling coolers with drinks/ice, serving food, making popcorn, selling shirts-Everything, 4 parents and 8 students per shift. Parent and Student volunteers, Please sign-up here via Charms (still need parent shifts covered as of this email, zero for 3-5pm shift): https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4CA8A92BA6FECE9-44485026-childrens

Week of Oct. 30-Nov. 3

*No regular rehearsals scheduled.

Wednesday, November 1st

*London Parade rehearsal #1. 11:45am start (Early release day). We will conclude by 1:30pm.

Tuesday, Nov. 7

*Band Rehearsal for all groups. 2:45pm start in courtyard for parade rehearsal. Continue with concert rehearsals after.

Wednesday, November 8th

*Group Photos. During class time. Change into concert attire, ***Wind Ensemble, bring this with you to school****. Sym/Colorguard bring your marching uniform parts.

Thursday, Nov. 9th

*Run-through rehearsal for concert/marching bands 2:45pm after school.

*Band Concert 7:00pm, all welcome.

-Concert info: report/return by 6:30pm wearing informal uniform, change into marching uniform minus gloves/hat. 7:00pm start time, wind ens in Formal concert attire if they arrive in time. Please invite your family and friends-they often remark how exciting this concert is with the marching band indoors. We accept donations at the door and run a concession stand. *We need families to supply items to sell at the concession stand, bring in by 6:30pm to lobby of auditorium. We sell everything for $1 and we are requesting sweet items. Please package/cut the items so they can easily be sold for $1 and think about supplying 12 pieces of your item. We also need volunteers to sit at the table and collect the monetary donations and we need volunteers to work the concession booth, at least 1 adult at the monetary donation table from 6:30 to 7:10 p.m., 2 concession workers pre-show (6:15 p.m.), 2-3 intermission and after the show including clean up. Volunteer needs: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0f4ca8a92ba6fece9-fall2

Saturday, Nov. 11

* Veteran’s Day Parade: Please be dropped off at the First State Bank 1201 Simonton St. no later than 3:00pm, this is our staging location. Wear your red band shirt, band issued grey shorts, and black marching shoes with black socks past the ankle, we will change into the formal full marching uniform there. We will run the parade sequence at this time, do not be late. Step off occurs at 4:00pm, it may be 5:00pm or later before we finish. We do not yet know where the parade ends. We will plan on having the equipment vehicle at Ann St./Green St. Arrange for your ride in this area etc. Please be well hydrated before the parade. **If you have connections to with the Chamber of Commerce or a business with a parking lot nearby, we would like to formally request a spot to park our equipment truck during the parade until we load, please let me know who to contact. We will need bottles of water iced down before and loaded onto our equipment vehicle before for everyone to have one at the end of the parade route, see link below to sign up for this. We will also need chaperones to walk with us, you must wear your red band shirt as well, sign up via: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4CA8A92BA6FECE9-44485573-veterans#/

*Performance at Sloppy Joes after the parade has ended. Students will be fed and we will perform for the community on Duval Street etc. Be sure to have your flip folder etc. More specific info to come.

Tuesday, November 14

*London Rehearsal: 2:45pm-4:00pm

*London Mandatory Meeting for students and at least one parent/guardian 6:00-7:00pm.

Saturday, Nov. 18

*Possible Drum Line/Trolley Band performance at Sunset Key (nighttime). More info to come.

Thank you!

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