Music department highlights state competitions, plans March trip to Orlando

The district’s music staff told the board that the program is “doing well” and highlighted recent successes in marching band, pep band, jazz and musical theater competitions. Mr. Miller, introduced by the board as one of the music‑department presenters, said the jazz band attended the Iowa Jazz Championships in Ames and that the program has placed in the state tournament repeatedly over the past four years even though only the top eight are ranked at that event.

Mr. Miller noted individual student achievements, including all‑state choir selections for Jude Cliff and Becky Anderson and Maddie Ellis named as an alternate. He said the show choir earned soloist and caption awards at regional contests, and the musical production has been adjudicated by the Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards with results pending publication.

The presenters outlined a planned, non‑mandatory trip for the music department next spring break to Orlando for performance and educational experiences. Attendance will be supported in part by booster fundraising; Mr. Miller said fundraising will be needed to keep costs manageable for students.

Board members praised the staff’s work and community support. Cassie Britain told the presenters she had heard positive feedback from contest audiences and thanked them for helping students produce “music versus playing notes.” The board did not take any formal action on the presentation; it was an informational item.

The board’s acknowledgment closed with thanks from members and encouragement to continue the department’s fundraising and community engagement efforts. The district also noted upcoming spring concerts at the elementary level and the use of early‑morning rehearsals to prepare competitive ensembles.