SBO Survival Guide

Survival Checklist

ACTION ESSENTIALS

• Set clear expectations for classroom and rehearsal behavior.
• Implement a transparent system for evaluation/grading.
• Involve parents and student leadership: Form a booster group to assist with fundraising and logistical planning.
• Liaise with school administrators/the school board about funding, supplies, and potential upcoming trips and festivals.
• Plan the year-long curriculum in advance and in your calendar include items such as parent-teacher conferences, pep band performances, competitions, and travel.
• Develop contacts at local music stores for instrument/equipment purchase and maintenance.
• Build a band Web site that will allow you to keep parents, students, and administrators up-to-date on your program’s achievements and upcoming events.
• Select a variety of repertoire (from “reassuring” to “challenging”).
• Establish a peer mentoring system for multi-level classes.
• For the sanity of both you and your students, maximize efficiency in the classroom and minimize extracurricular rehearsals.
• Continue to perform music and attend concerts independent of your school program.
• Seek out peers from whom you can learn and gain assistance.
• Be realistic about what you can and cannot achieve.

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