Dear BGCS Community,
When I first joined the band staff at Bowling Green City Schools three years ago, I was so excited to be part of a school system and community that values arts education for their students. Everyone in northwest Ohio recognizes the quality of the Bowling Green City Schools Performing Arts department. One of the most recognizable aspects of the music program is our Bobcat Marching Band. The Bobcat Marching Band is active in the community with performances at high school football games, local parades, and various community events. We were proud to be part of Portage’s 200th anniversary celebration this past fall and our students look forward to honoring members of our country’s armed forces on Veterans Day and Memorial Day each year.
In addition to being a vital part of community events, the Bobcat Marching Band is a family. The most important lesson that our students learn in marching band is how to take care of each other. Our upperclassmen spend countless hours planning to welcome our new freshmen each year. Each section has special traditions that have been passed down through multiple generations of students. Ask any Bobcat Band graduate or current member, the Bobcat Band is a family.
Marching band and other extracurriculars provide an outlet for students to build relationships with their peers and to learn to be good citizens. For many, band is their primary reason for coming to school each day. It has been my honor to watch students grow throughout their time in our program. I know that the discipline, teamwork, time management, and creative problem-solving skills they gain will serve them throughout the rest of their lives.
Our band members learn that the Bobcat Band tradition of excellence demands consistent effort. Everyone plays a crucial role in our success. They experience the profound satisfaction of collective achievement. When 100 individuals move as one, playing intricate music while executing precise formations, they are learning life lessons that cannot be replicated in a traditional classroom setting.
If the May operating levy fails, the Bobcat Marching Band will no longer be able to perform at important community events and our students will lose their marching band family. Our district last approved new operating funds in 2010. Since then, expenses have increased 2.42% each year while revenue has increased just 1.75%. These budget constraints force difficult decisions, and unfortunately, the arts and all other extracurriculars are now at risk of being eliminated. While some community members may view our extracurricular programs as an unnecessary expense, the reality is that these programs are, in many ways, the beating heart of our school community.
I urge you to consider all of the ramifications of your vote. This levy supports not just the Bobcat Marching Band, but the complete educational experience our students deserve. The Bobcat Marching Band hopes to be able to continue our tradition of serving our community through our performances at important school and local events. We appreciate your support!
Samantha Preisner
BGHS Marching Band Director
