Dear Editor

On behalf of all the St. Clairsville Band Parents, I want to extend our most sincere congratulations to the band and directors for receiving and Excellent rating at the State Large-Group Adjudication on April 30 in Canton, Ohio. I also want to extend our gratitude for the excellent way that the school celebrated the success of these students. As is customary for athletic teams that make it to a state competition, the student body, teachers, principals and even superintendent cheered them on from the parking lot as their busses pulled out for the competition.

To some, this may seem like a minor gesture, but to the students who put in many hours of practice and private lessons, and the parents who support the endeavors of their children, it was a very important acknowledgement of their hard work and accomplishments.

The state competition could have come and gone without anyone noticing, but because of the concern and commitment that Mr. Skaggs, Mr. Rocchi, and Mr. McKeever have for ALL of their students, including those in the band, it was a memory that the students and their parents will remember for many years to come. Equally important is the fact that it sent a very important message to all of the students at St. Clairsville; that the music and the arts are important, and when we have a group of students that excel, those students deserve to be recognized and acknowledged as much as any of our athletes.

The icing on the cake was seeing Principal Jim Rocchi in the audience at Canton to watch and support the band in its performance. This was more than even a proud parent could expect. That was a four hour round trip on a Friday evening for a 20 minute performance. We are blessed to have administrators with such dedication and commitment to our children.

As an officer in the Band Parent Organization I have consistently been impressed by the administration of our school district, including their interest, support and concern for the program and the children who participate.

Steve Bohach

Bellaire