In Alignment with the VMHS Band Program’s policies:
Grade Check Policy
School should always come first before all extracurricular activities and the band program as a whole has always placed a large emphasis on encouraging students to excel academically. Therefore, we ask that students check their grades online twice daily and we offer homework days throughout the season’s class period calendar to allow students to catch up and even receive tutoring from their peers.
We are always willing to help students by setting them up with a peer tutor, helping them talk to a teacher for assistance, allowing them to speak to a counselor, etc… when they ASK FOR HELP so that every student has the opportunity to succeed. Because of this, when a students’ grades begin to slip they are marked as academically ineligible and we must intervene in the only way we can to allow them to get back on track; by removing them from performances until their grades are fixed online for Mr. Wade to verify.
In some cases a student will be permitted to perform if we receive communication from a teacher guaranteeing that the grade will be fixed soon (based solely on ungraded home/classwork, or ungraded tests). We do grade checks throughout the season to monitor and keep students on track however, the only grade checks that are taken into account when determining academic eligibility are those done when report cards go out.
The policy is: there must be no D’s or F’s on the report card to remain eligible to perform. Students are always allotted the opportunity to be proactive and communicate with their teachers and the band/colorguard directors about the rare possibility of any exceptions that may be made at the discretion of the directors.
Attendance Policy:
You have made a commitment to be in the Colorguard program. In order to have a successful rehearsal and performance, it is essential that we have full attendance. Attendance at scheduled rehearsals and performances is required for membership in the program. All planned (non-emergency) absences must be submitted to both Mr. Wade via an absence excuse form by the parent/guardian and Jasmine by the student via the band app ASAP and absolutely no later than 1 week prior to the absence.
Attendance at Performances: It is impossible to “make-up” the experience of a performance. Furthermore, the other members carry an extra burden because of someone else’s inconsideration. As a member of the VMHS Performing Arts Department, understand that the performance culminates everything we work so hard for during the year. It is therefore essential, to your fine arts education, that you experience the performance of your art.
Absences from performances are only permitted in the event of an emergency: SEVERE PERSONAL ILLNESS OR DEATH IN THE FAMILY. Even in those circumstances, a significant written make-up assignment will need to be completed to make up for missing a performance. ALL requests for excused absences must be electronically submitted on an “Absence Excuse Form” to both the band and colorguard directors as soon as the schedule for the semester is received. Any absence submitted after the schedule is presented would have to fall under the “emergency” category. All other absences will be considered “Unexcused.”
“Absence Excuse Forms” can be found on the band website on the “Resources” page. Verbal approval, email, or handwritten notes are not sufficient – the “Absence Excuse Form” MUST be filled out.
Unexcused Absence from Performance: Being absent from a performance or leaving early due to work, homework, birthday parties, other non-essential school activities, non- emergency doctor appointments, tutoring, and vacations, are not considered excused absences. An unexcused absence from a performance is unacceptable and will result in the student’s grade being lowered to an “F” for that 6-week grading period and may result in automatic dismissal from the ensemble.
Attendance at Rehearsals: Absences from rehearsals are only permitted in the event of SEVERE personal illness, death in the family, or other special circumstances that are PREAPPROVED by the both the band and colorguard directors. Absent students will be replaced temporarily whenever possible in order for the group to have a successful rehearsal. If there are problems with a student leaving early or having unexcused absences from a rehearsal or performance, the appropriate consequences regarding performing opportunities will be enforced by the directors. Families should schedule appointments and other events on non-rehearsal and non-class period days whenever possible. If a student misses the final rehearsal before a performance, they will not be able to participate in that performance opportunity. Final rehearsals are vital for the entire team to be prepared so we must rehearse the show exactly as it will be performed.
Unexcused Absence from Rehearsal: An unexcused absence from a rehearsal is unacceptable and will result in the student being disallowed from performing at the next performance and the student’s grade being lowered one letter grade per infraction, for that 6-week grading period. Excessive absences, whether excused or not, will cause severe problems and could result in loss of position or rank within the organization.
Tardiness: Rehearsals and performances are scheduled at specific times and it is expected that you arrive before the start time. If there are problems with tardiness, the appropriate consequences regarding performance opportunities will be enforced by the directors. “To be early is to be on time. To be on time is to be late. To be late is inexcusable.”
In case of an emergency or sudden illness just prior to an after-school rehearsal or performance, please email the appropriate director.
vmhssapphires@gmail.com dwade@murrieta.k12.ca.us
Progressive Discipline Procedure: All discipline policies set forth by the Murrieta Valley Unified School District, Vista Murrieta High School, and contained within the Vista Murrieta High School Instrumental Music Program Student Handbook will be followed and enforced at all times. These policies apply to all instrumental music department activities including, but not limited to: after school activities, off-campus field trips, out of state travel, summer/winter camps, or any time the student is representing Vista Murrieta High School or is under the supervision of Vista Murrieta High School staff or designees.
Any or all of the following disciplinary actions may be imposed for violations of district, school, or band policies:
- Student Correction/Counseling and Parent Notification
- Referral to the Discipline Office and/or Loss of Band Privileges
- Exclusion or Removal from the Band Program
In addition, a student’s “Citizenship” grade can be changed to “N” – Needs Improvement or “U” – Unsatisfactory.
The disciplinary action imposed in each instance will be at the discretion of the Band Director depending upon the nature and severity of the conduct, the circumstances of the conduct, its frequency, prior warnings or disciplinary action, and/or other relevant factors.
Performance Calendar:
A full calendar of all Band and Color Guard events can be found at www.vmhsband.com and www.vistamurrietasapphires.org. It can also be accessed in Charms. Full calendars will also be posted in the band office so students can stay informed on a daily basis. Stay up to date with band and color guard emails to make sure you get the latest information for each band and color guard event.
Band Handbook:
Please be aware that most questions can be answered by referring to the VMHS band handbook found on the band website www.vmhsband.com under the “Resources” tab. All student/parents should review the handbook. All students are responsible for the expectations and policies found in the handbook.
Band Room/Rehearsal site Rules:
There are a lot of students that pass through the band room every day, and for everyone to co-exist there must be some guidelines.
1. Do not leave anything lying around; put all of your belongings in your designated area. Anything left out will be put in lost and found, thrown away, or confiscated.
2. Gum, food, drinks, and hats/hoods are not permitted in the Band Room.
3. No horseplay.
4. No throwing objects.
5. No skateboarding or bike riding.
6. Only VMHS Instrumental Music and colorguard Students, and parents are allowed in the Band Room/rehearsal site.
7. Keep your equipment in its assigned room.
8. Pick-up trash and keep the room clean - even if it isn’t yours.
9. Ask the Director/instructor before using the telephone.
10. Cell phones and other electronic devices must be set to “silent” or “off” while in the Band Room and other rehearsal spaces.
General Policies for Special Situations:
1. TOBACCO, ALCOHOL, DRUGS, DANGEROUS OBJECTS: All school guidelines are in effect for all Color Guard activities. Violations could lead to immediate dismissal from the program.
2. CANDY, GUM, SODA, SNACKS: At no time will these items be permitted in the Band Room. NO FOOD OR DRINK is permitted on the bus/carpools unless students are specifically instructed differently.
3. ONLY PLAY ON YOUR INSTRUMENT: You are NOT permitted to play another student’s instrument or other equipment.
4. REFRESHMENT PERIOD: Performers are usually permitted a portion of each event where they may obtain refreshments. This period will be designated at each event. There is to be no eating or drinking while in uniform. Only water is permitted.
5. JEWELRY, FACIAL HAIR, AND UNNATURAL HAIR COLOR: Are not permitted for performances unless it is part of an approved costume/pre-approved Appropriate grooming for performances is always expected and enforced. (jewelry is not permitted at rehearsals/class periods either)
6. GENERAL CONDUCT: Foul and/or abusive language or gestures will not be tolerated. Any actions considered being disrespectful by the staff, parent volunteer, or other persons will be dealt with firmly.
7. PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION (PDA): The basic rule is DO NOT DO IT! While personal standards may vary from family to family, and from peer group to peer group, it is essential that we maintain a policy that can serve all parties. We must maintain an atmosphere that does not encourage inappropriate behavior, and which does not infringe upon the rights of others. Some personal behavior can be embarrassing to others and often times gives a bad impression of our group to others. It is easier to maintain a reasonable atmosphere of friendship and camaraderie without the pressures of dealing with inappropriate public displays.
8. MAKE-UP WORK: Performances are NOT excuses for missing schoolwork. If you miss a class due to a performance or other band event, it is your responsibility to make up that work immediately.
9. ARRANGE TO HAVE A RIDE HOME: Please arrange to have a ride home after all performances and rehearsals. Make sure you inform your ride of the correct pick-up time and location.
Travel Procedures:
1. A MEDICAL RELEASE FORM must be signed and on file with the Head Chaperone before any student may participate. Special health problems should also be noted so that adequate care can be provided when away from home. Please update the form during the year if necessary.
2. ADULT SUPERVISION is provided on all Color Guard trips. Students traveling to an event with the performance group must return in the same manner, with the following exception: only in the event of a family emergency. In such a case, students may return with their own parents or guardian if a note has been given to the Director/s, relieving the District and the Director/s of all responsibility and liability.
3. BOARDING AND EXITING THE BUSES/CARPOOLS: Students will not board the bus/carpools until instructed to do so. Students will remain on the bus and stay seated until instructed otherwise (except in emergency situations.)
4. PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION: All rules regarding PDA apply to riding the bus/in carpools as well. PDA will not be allowed at any time. The Band staff or chaperone may ask you to change seats or busses if they feel the need to do so.
5. GENERAL CONDUCT: YELLING IS NOT PERMITTED AT ANY TIME. Yelling can startle the driver and cause serious accidents. All body parts must stay inside the bus. Moving from seat to seat is not permitted. Quiet talking is permitted. No screaming. No flash photography.
6. BUS/CARPOOL ASSIGNMENTS: All students will be assigned a specific bus prior to departure. Switching busses/carpools is NOT permitted. Return to your seat quickly so that attendance may be checked. We are usually in a hurry, and this can be very time consuming. You are required to obey the driver, staff member, chaperone, or person in charge of the bus/carpool in a courteous manner.
7. VALUABLES: The Music Booster organization or Director(s) assume no responsibility for any personal items. It is suggested that valuable items be left at home.
8. QUIET ZONE: Talking is allowed only while the bus is traveling on the freeway; students must be silent when the bus is on surface streets or upon entering any parking lot.
9. CLEANING THE BUS/CARPOOL: Busses/cars are to be cleaned and free of trash at the end of all of our trips. All windows are to be rolled up as well.
10. LOADING EQUIPMENT: Students are responsible for loading and unloading their own equipment (unless otherwise noted) , personal belongings, and instruments before and after all events.
11. PICK-UP TIMES: At the conclusion of all events, students should arrange to be picked up at school promptly at the designated pick-up time. Pick-up times are listed in the itinerary that is sent home with students prior to the event.