Dear BVW Band Families,

WELOME to the newest members of our Blue Valley West Band Family! We are excited to have you join us! Know that you are in for a fantastic experience!

We begin our 2021-2022 band year with our Kickoff Rehearsal and Info Meeting on Thursday, June 3. A reminder that this event is for ALL 2021-2022 Blue Valley West Band and Color Guard Members! See additional information about that event HERE.

Parents - we need you! High school band is unique in that parents have opportunities to share in their student's experience from a front row seat! You can learn more on June 3!

Summer Conditioning - A reminder that ALL BVW Band students participate in our marching program and get to experience something that makes high school band such a special and unique opportunity! With the restrictions in place on our music programs for the past 14 months, it is important that we "stretch out" our musical muscles as we prepare for a more "normal" school year. Students should attend any and all conditioning sessions and sectionals when in town, HOWEVER, If you are on a trip or scout camp, etc. just let us know - no worries! We have plenty of ways to ensure everyone feels confident before band camp in August! For additional details, click HERE. If you know someone who wasn't sure about joining high school band, please encourage them to come check it out - we're going to have a great time!

This Week:
Thursday, June 3: Marching Band Kickoff and Parent Info Meeting for ALL Band Students In Grades 9-12.
Please see additional information HERE.

In the Future:
Thursday, June 10: Summer Conditioning Session #1

Thursday, June 24: Summer Conditioning Session #2

See the CALENDAR page for more!
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At the end of last week, the Blue Valley Schools sent out an updated set of protocols related to COVID mitigation based on current CDC and Johnson County Health recommendations. Additional specific guidance was provided to all activity and athletic sponsors.  Beginning June 1, 2021 the following protocols apply to all of our rehearsals and performances:

• Students who display cold or flu-like symptoms MUST stay home until fully recovered and / or cleared by a medical professional. This is ALWAYS good practice!
  
• Masks are not required for students or staff, however individuals are welcome to wear a mask at any time.
  
• Masks are highly encouraged for individuals who have not been fully vaccinated when inside Blue Valley facilities.
• Bell coverings are no longer required outside, we are awaiting further guidance on indoor activities. If needed, these will be provided to students.
  
• Students must provide their own water bottle, food, towels, etc.
  
• Continue to practice good hygiene including frequent hand washing and cleaning equipment and clothing after use. 
  

We acknowledge that our return to a more "normal" rehearsal environment may cause feelings of anxiety or apprehension for some students. Part of that stems from the fact that our band students did a phenomenal job following  all required mitigation strategies for the past year, and it may seem "strange" to no longer have these strict rules in place. In addition to the guidelines provided by our local officials, we continue to learn about and follow guidance provided by the NFHS Aerosol study and other professional music organizations. If students or parents have any questions, please visit with one of our directors so we can discuss your concerns. Providing a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for ALL of our Band FAMILY Is our first priority!

​While this year has been anything BUT normal, we are excited to begin our preparations for a return to the marching field this coming summer! Please take a moment to view the information about our plans for summer and fall marching band activities! We are looking forward to taking our first steps together into the next chapter of the Blue Valley West Band history!