As students, parents and teachers continue to anticipate what the fall semester may look like, one thing won’t be there for Carroll Dragon Band members — marching season.
On Wednesday, July 15, CISD Director of Bands Ken Johnson announced the Carroll Dragon Band would not participate in competitive marching band activities this fall. According to the letter addressed to band families, the decision was made after COVID-19 cases drastically increased across both Texas and the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
“There are too many associated risks and uncertainties with how, or if, marching competitions will take place in the fall,” Ken says in the letter. “Undertaking a competitive marching season involves a significant amount of time, energy and funds from the school district, booster club, band families and greater Southlake community. We take these investments seriously and believe it is in everyone’s best interest to use these resources to support a marching experience that safely allows all students to participate.”
Although the Carroll Dragon Band will not participate in marching season this fall, Ken says the band is looking to form a voluntary pep band that could perform in the stands and halftime during Dragon Football games. Ken says they will also look at potentially forming an indoor winds group this spring to complement percussion and winter guard. Ken says a survey will be sent to determine which students would be interested in volunteering for the pep band.
“While we know this news will come as a disappointment to many, we remain committed to our ‘safety first’ policy for our students and community,” Ken says. “We are wholeheartedly dedicated to providing our talented student-musicians with meaningful and safe outlets for expression and opportunities for camaraderie with friends and the band community.”
Ken says summer band will begin on Monday, August 3, with detailed plans to participate releasing soon.