September 2009
Volume 75, Number 1

District Reports

District VIII

A new school year has begun and we are all beginning to face our own challenges. For some of us it means dealing with construction issues. For others it may mean new positions and for others still, maintaining programs we have already established. New school years offers us all a new opportunity to challenge ourselves to meet the needs of our individual programs.

For those of you who may not know, two of our District VIII Band Directors joined the ranks of the retired this past school year and I am sure did not miss the summer heat of band camp. Congratulations to both Barry Vowell and Ed Farabough on their retirement and thank you for everything you have given of yourselves over the years to those of us who have entered this profession and have benefitted from patience and expertise.

Thank you to all those directors who have volunteered to host varies LMEA and District VIII events for the school year. Everyone needs to take the time now to familiarize yourself with our calendar so due dates and events do not slip on you. Due dates and events are closer than you think.

Whatever challenges your programs face for the year try not to forget that other directors are willing to help and you are not alone. I do not know a single director in our district that is not willing to answer questions, give suggestions, or even just listen to you vent when you need a sympathetic ear. We are all in this together, do not forget that.

If I can be of any assistance to you or your students please do not hesitate to contact me, I may not always know the answer but can usually find someone who does.