Marshfield band earns out‑of‑state travel approval; board OKs exploring Hawaii parade trip

Marshfield band director John Cruz told the Coos Bay SD 9 board the band has students accepted to honor ensembles and asked for two forms of approval: immediate out‑of‑state travel for three students to the Western International Band Clinic in Seattle and permission to explore fundraising and planning for a larger Pearl Harbor Day Parade trip.

Cruz said the Seattle clinic runs about four days of rehearsals followed by a final concert and that auditions are competitive. Student Nico Tucker described the experience as "one of the best experiences I've ever had," and noted she was accepted into the highest band this year.

After the board approved travel for the three students by voice vote, Cruz said he would like to pursue the Hawaii opportunity, describing it as "a one‑time deal" tied to the Pearl Harbor Day Parade. He estimated 40–60 students might attend depending on instrumentation and funding. Board members encouraged Cruz to begin outreach and fundraising but noted that final commitment would require future approvals and detailed cost estimates.

The board approved authorization to begin investigating the Hawaii trip and directed Cruz to return with a cost and fundraising plan before any final travel commitment was made.