Students and parents urge commission to fund Campbell Middle School marching band; director outlines $126,000 year plan

Students, parents and the Campbell Middle School band director told the City Commission on Nov. 5 that the program has grown to 257 students and needs funding for instruments, repairs, uniforms and travel. Band director Breshawn Watson presented a multi-year plan with an immediate fundraising goal of roughly $126,000 to support this year’s performances and a three‑year plan that totals about $205,000 for instruments, uniforms and travel.

Several eighth-grade students described how band membership has improved their confidence, discipline and academic performance. Parents and a band-organizing group asked the commission to consider city funding to avoid losing students who cannot afford fees. Commissioners expressed support and asked staff to review funding sources; one commissioner said he would recommend a $1,000 allocation from bike-week proceeds and asked staff to place any further allocation on an upcoming agenda for formal action.

Band leaders said they are actively fundraising and have already secured several small investments; they requested help finding recurring funding sources and facility space for rehearsals and programs. The commission did not vote on a specific appropriation at the meeting but directed staff to follow up and return details about possible funding allocations and next steps.