Eatonville students, band director and volunteers honored after Florida competition win

The Eatonville School Board on Tuesday recognized members of the high school band for winning first place at a competition in Florida and presented a certificate of appreciation to volunteer Shannon Collins for designing the community’s Daffodil Festival float.

Miss Danielson, who brought students to the meeting, said the trip required long-term fundraising and hard work in rehearsals and praised the students’ dedication. "They worked really hard and they just they prepared," she said, describing the challenge of organizing two different bands and limited rehearsal time.

Several students who traveled to Florida spoke about what the trip meant to them. "It was a great bonding experience," said Price, who identified himself and said he plays the euphonium. Bridget, a clarinet player, said hearing feedback from outside judges was valuable: "It was really awesome." Annika, who plays piccolo, said the trip helped members from Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band work together across schedules.

Shannon Collins and family were presented with a framed certificate "in grateful appreciation for your outstanding volunteer service and creative vision" for designing Eatonville’s float, which won a Queen’s Award for best use of the festival theme. Collins described the behind-the-scenes effort — including coordinating volunteers, preparing thousands of daffodils and last-minute logistics — and said winning the award was emotional.

Board members thanked students, staff and Collins for their contributions and noted the recognition as a boost for the community and district pride. The board invited the students to return for future events and noted the band’s role in representing Eatonville at state and national events.