Fees & Payments

Band Fee

Each student in the band program pays one fee that goes toward the operating costs of the band program. This "band fee" is $200 for the 2026-2027 school year. This does not cover all costs but does help. It is up to students and families, through the organization of the booster club, to fundraise and seek donations from the community to fund the remainder of the band budget. To learn how you can play your part in this effort please reach out to marchingband@waabc.org.

Required Materials (One Time Fees)

There are some costs that are associated with specific student needs that would be silly to charge within the band fee each year. These costs cover things that students may only need once, or may need again if lost or damaged. These fees are for items that are purchased through the band but owned by the student. These items are potentially only necessary to buy during a student's first year in the band program. Some items that may be in this category are band shirt, band shorts, marching shoes, reed case, etc.

Optional Fees

Some fees are optional and are not necessary for participation in the band program. Two examples are Reed Club and the Spring Trip.

Reed Club is a one time fee of $35 (about one box of reeds). Each student enrolled in Reed Club will receive 4 reeds upfront to rotate through. Any time they break a reed during the school year, they will receive a new one. The band loses money on this but it is worth it to keep students playing and not waiting on parents to find time to go to the store for more reeds.

The Spring Trip this year is $760. This covers the optional 4-day trip to Williamsburg, VA from April 22-25. More info on this will be sent out in BAND.

Payments

Families who are able to pay the program fee in full are encouraged to do so as early as possible. Early payments allow us to purchase necessary equipment, services, meals, and other resources when they are needed, while giving families who require additional time the flexibility to use a payment plan. Every timely payment helps keep the entire program moving forward.

Fundraisers

Fundraising opportunities are offered throughout the year. Some allow students to earn credit toward their individual financial obligations, while others support shared program needs such as equipment, instruction, travel, and future improvements. Participation is voluntary, but we strongly encourage every family to support these efforts whenever possible—each family’s involvement helps keep costs manageable and strengthens the band program for every student.

Assistance

We understand that some families may need additional flexibility in meeting their financial obligation. If paying the program fee according to the standard schedule would create a financial hardship, please complete the Financial Assistance Request Form to request a payment plan or discuss another arrangement with the school. This form is intended for families with a genuine need; submitting it begins a conversation and does not automatically change or waive the fee.