How to Effectively Communicate Your Values as a High School Band Program

Every high school band program has a unique identity shaped by its values. These values guide how students learn, perform, and grow together. Yet, many programs struggle to clearly share what they stand for with students, parents, and the wider community. Communicating your band’s core values helps build trust, attract committed members, and create a positive culture that lasts beyond the school year.

This post explores practical ways to express your high school band program’s values clearly and consistently. Whether you want to highlight teamwork, discipline, creativity, or community involvement, these strategies will help your message resonate.

Define Your Core Values Clearly

Before you can communicate your values, you need to know exactly what they are. When I was in high school, we learned on day one what the program values were as it was our dismissal chant. "DISCIPLINED, DEDICATED, DIGNIFIED, PROUD, A LEADER, LOYAL, SIR! Any member of the Arlington Martin Warrior Band will tell you that this is a part of not only what they are, but who they are. In fact, when I became a head band director for the first time at Glen Rose High School, I used the same chant and values to develop my program. Thank you Jim McDaniel, may you rest in peace, for instilling these values in countless band students, even ones you never met!

Gather your band staff and student leaders to discuss what principles matter most. Some common values for band programs include:

• Commitment to Excellence in musicianship and personal growth

• Respect for fellow members, instructors, and the music

• Collaboration and teamwork on and off the field or stage

• Inclusivity welcoming students of all backgrounds and skill levels

• Community Engagement through performances and outreach

  
  

Write these values down in simple, clear language. Avoid vague phrases. For example, instead of “We value hard work,” say dedicated or diligent.

Share Values Through Your Band Handbook and Website

Your band handbook is often the first place new students and parents look for information. Include a dedicated section that explains your values and what they mean in everyday band life. Use examples like:

• How students show respect during rehearsals

• Expectations for attendance and preparation

• Ways the band supports community events

  
  

On your website, create a page or banner highlighting your values. Use photos or videos of rehearsals and performances that illustrate these principles in action. For example, a photo of students helping each other with music or marching fundamentals outside of an organized rehearsal.

Model Values in Every Interaction

Words alone won’t convince anyone of your values. Band directors and staff must demonstrate them consistently. This means:

• Praising students who show leadership and teamwork

• Addressing conflicts respectfully and fairly

• Encouraging students to support peers who struggle

• Maintaining high standards while being patient and understanding

  
  

When students see adults living the values, they are more likely to adopt them. For example, if punctuality is a value, always start rehearsals on time and explain why it matters.

Use Storytelling to Bring Values to Life

Stories stick better than abstract statements. Share real examples of how your band’s values have made a difference. This could be:

• A student who improved through dedication and practice

• A time the band came together to support a member facing personal challenges

• A time when the band volunteered to provide community service such as trash pick-up along the highway, or helping to repair a house for an elderly couple.

  
  

In newsletters, social media posts, or at concerts, tell these stories to show your values in action. Highlighting individual experiences makes your message relatable and memorable.

Engage Students as Ambassadors of Your Values

Students are your best messengers. Encourage them to talk about what the band means to them and how the values shape their experience. You can:

• Create a student team responsible for promoting values

• Have students share testimonials on your website or at events

• Involve students in planning community service or outreach activities

  
  

When students take ownership of the values, they build a stronger, more positive culture. For example, a student-led mentoring program can reinforce collaboration and support.

I had students from my leadership team volunteer for peer tutorials. We called them Taco Tuesday Tutorials and a local taco shop donated tacos for the students who participated. This was a great way to help band students who were struggling in a class and let our leaders practice their mentoring skills outside the band hall. This was very successful for us and kept our eligibility between 98-99%!

Communicate Values Consistently Across All Channels

Consistency is key to effective communication. Use every opportunity to reinforce your values:

• Announce values at the start of the school year and remind students regularly

• Include values in emails, newsletters, and social media updates

• Display posters or banners in rehearsal spaces

• Mention values during rehearsals, performances, and meetings

  
  

This repetition helps everyone internalize what the band stands for. For instance, a weekly “value spotlight” in your newsletter can keep the focus fresh.

I liked to remind my students of our values as a part of positive reinforcement. For example: If the band became chatty, instead of saying "Stop Talking," I would ask "are we showing discipline at this moment?" Or if a student showed up late for a rehearsal, instead of telling them the obvious of "You're Late!" I might say "Should I be worried about your dedication?" This type of phrases were more effective and reminded them of what we stand for.

Involve Parents and the Community

Parents and community members play a big role in supporting your band. Share your values with them through:

• Orientation meetings and parent newsletters

• Community concerts and events where you explain your mission

• Volunteer opportunities that reflect your values, like helping with uniforms or fundraising

  
  

When parents understand and support your values, they reinforce them at home and in the community. This partnership strengthens the band’s reputation and resources.

Measure and Celebrate Success Based on Values

Track how well your band lives up to its values. Use surveys, feedback sessions, or informal conversations to gather input from students, parents, and staff. Celebrate achievements that reflect your values, such as:

• Students showing leadership or kindness

• Successful community performances

• Improvements in attendance and rehearsal focus

  
  

Recognizing these moments motivates everyone to keep up the good work. For example, an “Outstanding Values Award” at the end of the year can honor students who best represent your program’s principles.

Fairly frequently I receive a random Facebook message or text from a former student that share a story of how the values band instilled in them have had an impact on their lives. I love this! As band directors, we know that band is a vehicle to teach so much more than music. Are you communicating those values effectively? If not, what are you waiting for?

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If these ideas resonate with you, consider checking out my new book which is available for pre-order at: https://www.mclellanbandconsulting.com/product-page/the-unconducted-curriculum-book-digital-files

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Chris McLellan retired in 2021 as Director of Bands for Springtown ISD and currently serves as Executive Secretary for UIL Region 7. Additionally, Chris is a clinical teacher supervisor for Tarleton State University and the University of North Texas Band programs as well as an active mentor and clinician for numerous band programs across Texas. Please visit mclellanbandconsulting.com for additional blogs, resources and contact information.