Heart-to-Heart: The Future of Our Band Family and Volunteering

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 Dear Park Vista Band Families,

I’m writing this to you not just with my "band director hat," but adult-to-adult. I want to be incredibly candid about where we are as a program, because right now, we are at a bit of a crossroads.

Mr. Rodriguez and I work tirelessly, every single day, to ensure Park Vista remains a model program. From marching band and concert performances to guard, percussion, honor performances, all state, all county, hosting clinics and MPAs, we pour everything we have into these students. Our kids match that energy; they are behind the scenes, at every gig, and in every class doing the heavy lifting. But the "secret sauce" of a thriving band has always been the parents. We ask the kids for a lot, and all we need from our families is to handle the things the kids simply can’t do.

The Reality of our Volunteer Situation

Currently, our volunteer slots in CutTime are rarely being filled. This isn't just about "extra help," it’s impacting our core and our reputation:

  • Financial Impact: Our FLA Live spots are going unfilled. This is valuable money that could be earned to pay off various fees, and we are literally leaving those opportunities on the table.

  • Burnout: We cannot expect the same 5–6 parents to carry the weight of 180+ students. It isn't fair to those few who go above and beyond, and they are, understandably, getting burnt out. This is especially relevant for our Parent Board who have also TIRELESSLY been working to ensure that operations have been streamlined, organized, and plentiful since the start of the year. 

  • Immediate Concern: We have Jazz MPA in just two days. To be honest, I am nervous to even send out the final details to visiting directors regarding pre-ordered meals and concessions because I don’t see enough parents signing up to actually run them.

We have our program slogan that I tell the kids about a lot, and has been a part of our program since the start: #OneBandOneFamily. 

We use this slogan because we believe it. Band is not a solo activity, and it is not just for the kids. This is a family affair, but right now, it doesn't feel like a family effort. It feels like our calls for help are falling into a void. I understand that life is overwhelming and everyone is busy, I truly do. But if everyone contributed just a small amount of time, no one would leave an event feeling fried and exhausted. We have 180+ students in the whole program, and 180 kids means 180 families as well.

Our program is historically praised for its hospitality and for welcoming the community with open arms. When I say this, I am not just talking about the kids, I am talking about the adults involved.. not the staff... YOU as parents and family of these wonderful kids and your passion. I would hate to see that sense of camaraderie and our stellar reputation diminish because we couldn’t find the hands to help.

How can we do better?

We have been working hard with our Parent Board to streamline communications, finances, and processes to make things easier for you. If there is something I am missing, or something we can do to make the PV Band experience more enjoyable or engaging for you as families, please tell me. Our kids are doing great, but I need to know how we can ensure our families feel enthused to support these kids who deserve every single opportunity they are receiving. 

The Immediate Need: Jazz MPA

We have 50 or so students volunteering their time to make this event a success. They would love to see their parents there with them.

  • The Ask: Please check CutTime and fill the volunteer slots for Jazz MPA.

  • The Time: We’ve broken these into manageable 4-hour shifts.

We have a world-class group of students. Let’s make sure we are providing them with the world-class support system they deserve.

Thank you for listening, for your honesty, and hopefully, for your help.

Warm Regards,
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Amrutha Murthy
Band Director ▪ Park Vista Community High School
amrutha.murthy@palmbeachschools.org
561-491-8473 (O)
Park Vista Band | Band Parent HUB

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