Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is WEMEA?
WEMEA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization primarily supported by Santa Fe Band Parents. Funds raised by WEMEA go to directly support the Band's activities. Our primary objective is to provide our students with the best possible band experience.
When and Where are the WEMEA meetings?
General Meetings are usually held the second Monday of each month at 7:00PM in the SFHS Band Room. We encourage parents to attend as a lot of information is shared at these meetings. Minutes from these meetings are also posted to this website.
What is the Activity Fee?
The activity fee covers a variety of costs associated with producing a superior band experience for our students. The fee is collected by WEMEA to cover the costs associated with new marching shoes, polo shirts for incoming freshman and new students, various Color Guard accessories, meals and refreshments served at marching competition, transportation to contest, Annual band banquet, training campus for Drumline, Drum Majors and Color Guard, and lunches during band camp. Most items required for performances and activities are covered by this fee.
How much is the Activity Fee?
WEMEA requests that parents contribute an annual amount of $300.00 ($220 for each additional student band member per family) There are three ways to pay the Activity Fee contribution:
(Payment 1 by 8/15/2016 Payment 2 by 9/15/2016 Payment 3 by 10/15/2016)
Will I need to pay other amounts besides the Activity Fee?
This fee covers most expenses. Students will have to pay individually for audition fees for student contests like CODA, trip fees, and social events (Christmas party, movie night, end of year banquet.) Parents will also have to pay for admission in to marching contests.
What kind of time commitment will my child have by being in the Band?
Optional music rehearsals will begin in June, usually 2-3 hours, 4 days in June. The Band marches annually at the Edmond July 4th Parade, including incoming freshman. Band camp begins the first full week in August. This is a very demanding week of instruction, especially for freshman. This is the start of marching season and a pivotal point for band members to meet and bond with each other. Marching rehearsals continue daily once school begins and continue through November, taking approximately 10-15 hours per week. Many times specific sections (i.e. percussion, low brass, woodwind, etc.) will rehearse additional hours during the week. Color Guard rehearses approximately 10-15 hours per week. A home football game includes a rehearsal, Pre-Game preparations, and the actual game. Students are typically involved with a home game from 5:30 pm until 10:30 pm. An away football game includes travel, the game, and travel back to SFHS. Students are typically involved in an away game from 4:30 pm until 11:30 pm. The band does not participate in all away games. See band schedule and website for more details throughout the year. Band Contests occur on Saturdays in September and October. Band contests are typically all day events. Detailed itineraries are available at band parent meetings, distributed to the students and on the website.
What is the volunteer commitment?
WEMEA raises funds through band parent merchandise sales at football games and various fund raisers. Concessions are run at two contests held at Santa Fe in the late fall and early spring. New in 2016 the band will be responsible for the visitor-side concessions at the new SFHS stadium. This will require a large number of volunteers for not only HS home football games but other games played at this new facility throughout the week.
Are we allowed to watch the Band during rehearsals?
Yes, you are ENCOURAGED to watch, but please do not distract the kids. They are practicing and this is a very important time for the directors. Also, please keep the noise down; they are trying to give instruction. During Band Camp, you are welcome to watch from outside the camp area. Tuesday evenings (after the season has started) in the stadium are a great time to come watch the kids. You will be able to locate your kid on the field and see what all they have accomplished.
How can I support the Band?
Come to all the football games and band contests, volunteer to help setup, feed and clean up at all events, meet other parents and enjoy the band. You can purchase shirts, hats, sweatshirts and jackets from our merchandise table. The net profits go directly to WEMEA. Also follow the band's activities and announcements on Facebook and Twitter and be sure to share our information on your Facebook wall and to your Twitter followers!
What is a Band Buddy?
All incoming freshman are paired up with one or more upper classman to help them assimilate into band life and high school. This has been a very successful program for all incoming freshman. We encourage you to get to know your students band buddy and reach out to get to know their parents.
What is Meals on Wheels?
At every marching band contest, WEMEA prepares and organizes 1 to 2 complete meals, snacks and drinks for the band members. The band student’s costs are covered by the Activity Fee. The parents and siblings are welcome to eat at each meal for a nominal fee paid at the contest. This group also plans and serves lunch to students every day of band camp.
What can I expect at a band marching contest?
It is a great time to meet other parents. It is like a big tailgate party. Bring a lawn chair and dress properly for the weather. There will be televisions (sometimes we have satellite access) to watch football. There is a lot of down time between marching performances, but everyone has ways to fill the time. We have to set up the tents and serve snacks, lunch and dinner to the kids. The marching final under the lights is a great time.
How will WEMEA communicate with Me?
Keep us updated on your current email address by subscribing to our Google Group by sending an email message to wemea+subscribe@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe, send an email to: wemea+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
Can my student participate in more than one student activity?
Many of the band students participate in multiple activities. These students are the best of the best. Many have participated in football, basketball, Honor Society, Cheer and Pom along with their marching band activity. All the band directors and teachers work together to allow students to experience many disciplines.