Dear Boosters,

It is an honor and privilege to work with these band students! What joy there is, to see them grow into beautiful young men and women who are passionate about music. They acquire life skills such as determination, perseverance, and discipline along the way to musical maturity…and it shows.

One of our jobs as a Booster organization is to make the journey a positive experience that they will never forget. Our kids sweat countless hours in the hot sun…they memorize hundreds of notes…they learn to count in a brand-new way…they cry and get frustrated and want to quit…and they laugh and enjoy a camaraderie that only comes to those who work hard – together – for a common goal. We help them celebrate their victories and reframe their "losses" so that it all works for their long-term good, providing the encouragement they need to go out the next time and give it their all – one more time.

There is no way that the School District can contribute enough money for a thriving, successful band program; so another one of our jobs is to make sure the kids have the funds they need to grow, compete, and achieve their dreams. This takes all of us – not a few of us – as we work concessions, sell Sally Foster paper or Boston butts or Florida fruit, or host "The Sight of Sound" marching competition in October.

Whether you roll out a prop on the back side of the field during marching season, scoop popcorn into boxes in the concession stand, unload equipment off the truck, make sure the girls have all of their flags, or drive a bus, YOU ARE VALUABLE! We appreciate smiling faces, positive attitudes, and encouraging words and want you to be involved in your child’s life (even if they might not acknowledge you at times…after all, we are talking about teens! J ).

Thank you in advance for all you will do to affirm our students and encourage them to be their best and to do their best! I look forward to working with you as we continue the tradition of excellence in the Southaven High School Band Program.

Gratefully,

Sandra Mansfield

President

Southaven Band Boosters, Inc.