What is Band Boosters?

The Southwest Band Boosters is a nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to supporting the students, directors, and programs of the Southwest Band. Working in partnership with the band staff, the Boosters help provide the resources and volunteer support that allow our students to have exceptional musical and educational experiences.

The Band Boosters Board of Directors is made up of parent volunteers who oversee the organization's operations. Directors coordinate fundraising efforts, manage the budget, organize volunteers, plan events, oversee communications, and ensure the Boosters fulfill their mission of supporting the band program. They work behind the scenes throughout the year so that students and directors can focus on making music with our students.

Band Boosters includes every band parent or guardian. Whether volunteering at competitions, chaperoning trips, helping with uniforms, serving meals, assisting with equipment, donating to fundraisers, or supporting special events, every family plays an important role. There is no expectation that every parent does everything—rather, each family is encouraged to contribute in ways that fit their time, talents, and availability. 
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Together, the Board, volunteers, directors, and families create a strong support system that helps the Southwest Band thrive. Through teamwork and shared commitment, we provide opportunities that enrich every student's band experience.

What happens on game nights?

Please do not park in front of the band room or in the lot where trailers must park. It is important that the lane in front of the band room is clear for returning buses.

General Game Details

• The band and color guard will perform at all home football games (usually 3 to 4 home games per year). 
• BVSW "home" games are typically played at the ANT-DAC on the campus of Blue Valley West (16200 Antioch Road). The band does not travel or play at away games, except possibly play-off games. 
• Students will receive all necessary information from Mr. Banks via Student Square prior to the game. This includes uniform and arrival details. 
• Unless otherwise specified, all band members will ride the bus from SW to the district stadium at BVW.  The only exception to this rule is a student returning late from a BVSW sport.
• Students help load the trailers, so no additional help is needed from Roadies until the trailers arrive at BVHS.  

During the Game

• Upon arrival, Roadies unload equipment. Reload equipment after the halftime show is over, and return to BVSW after game.
• Students play the national anthem and alma mater before the game and then are required to sit in the band section during the game. 
• Students typically perform their show at half time, unless conflicting with other scheduled activities (i.e. Senior Night or Homecoming) and then they will perform before or after the game.
• During the 3rd quarter, students are allowed to visit the concession stand and visit with other students/family.
• Students return to their band section seats during 4th quarter. 

After the game

• All band members will ride the bus back to SW to help unload equipment and clean buses. 
• Students are released when everything is clean. Don't forget backpacks, etc. 
• Students are usually released between 9:30pm-10:00pm, depending on the game. 

Marching Competition Information

Please do not park in front of the band room or in the lot where trailers must park. It is important that the lane in front of the band room is clear for returning buses.

​General Details
The band generally travels to several out-of town competitions per marching season. Students are transported on school buses. For events that are very far, charter buses are rented. Students are usually required to be at school very early Saturday and will not return until very late Saturday night/early Sunday morning. 

What to Wear  
Students will receive all necessary information from Mr. Banks via Student Square prior to the game. This includes uniform and arrival details. All uniform items and instrument must be with the student upon arrival. They should double check everything. 
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Traveling Money  Students should eat or bring breakfast for the bus, but otherwise they will be provided with all food and drinks for the day. Students may want to bring extra money for concessions or souvenirs. 

Pick Up Details
Students will be expected to stay until buses are clean and equipment is put away. As the timing on events is variable, please ask your student to text you when they are getting close to school for pickup. ​Do not park in front of the band room or in the lot where trailers must park in the lot. It is important that the lane in front of the band room be kept clear for returning buses after games and competitions.

Going to a Competition? 
Boosters are always welcome to cheer on the Emerald Regiment! Details will be sent via Parent Square. Families bring cash for the admission fee for spectators and food. Don't forget to rep Southwest with band spirit wear!

More Detail on Attending Competitions
Families attending a competition should bring lawn chairs and a cooler with food/drinks for themselves. Everyone is welcome to hang out at the camp site, however, the large white tents and blankets are reserved for students’ use. Students usually have hours to watch other bands perform, play cards, talk, listen to music, even sleep. The goal is for families to be there to cheer, give high-fives and celebrate with students. Families are also there to cheer, give high-fives and celebrate when they don't do as well. If you don't think your student wants you there, you might be surprised at their reaction.

• Performance: Students enter the field with a small, cold bottle of water provided by Hospitality committee. Roadies help students get the equipment and props to the field and set up for their performance. Everyone can watch the performance. After the performance, Roadies help students move equipment and props back to the camp site. Everyone waits for other bands to perform and for standings to be posted. Standings dictate which bands will proceed to the Finals and when they will perform.
• Finals: Students enter field with water. Roadies help move equipment and props. After the final performance, Roadies help students move equipment and props back to the camp site. Some students take their instruments back to the camp site, then return quickly to the stands. Other students stay in the stands with their instruments. Everyone will wait for awards to be presented. 
  
• After awards, students return to buses and Roadies load the trailers for the return home. When the buses and trailers return to BVSW, students unload what they have carried onto the buses. Trailers are parked in the lot. 

What do Parents do during marching season?

Everyone is needed for the season to run well. Even if you don't sign up for something, you can still help out when you attend activities. Whether a local game or a competition, all families are invited to attend and help with Hospitality, Roadies and Photos/Video. Sign ups will be shared via the Boosters newsletter and Band app.
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Fundraising  Help with different fundraising events throughout the year.
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Hospitality  Volunteers are responsible for food, snacks and drinks at competitions. They also coordinate snacks for band camp, a cookout for the last day of band camp, donut day at band camp, snacks for the pool party, water for the football games, pizza delivery for special events and anything else that comes up. Allergy requirements should be communicated so that all needs can be met.

Photo/Video  Do you like to take pictures or shoot video?  We would love to put your skills to use! Please contact [email protected] for more information.

Roadies are vital to our performances at games and competitions. They build large props, and move the equipment at football games and competitions. They also load up the water and food items whenever they are needed. Volunteer for as many or as few of the performances you'd like.

Uniforms/Clothing  Uniform volunteers help in the summer with fittings and distribution of uniforms, polos and show shirts. We also need help during the year organizing uniforms.

Website  This is a great way to support Band and Color Guard from the comfort of your home or office. Attention to detail is a must, and weekly updates are needed throughout the year. Even if you've never helped with a website, this one is easy.  Contact [email protected] for more details.