FLHS Band, Color Guard Uniforms Decades Old, Need Replacement

The Board of Education met Wednesday to review the preliminary 2013-2014 school budget before the public presentation on March 28.

In reviewing the line items, a plea was made by Board President Jimmy Park and members of the Board, as well as the public, to allocate the $22,645 in special state aide towards the purchase of uniforms for the High School's marching band and color guard.

Board of Education member Holly Morell said that the FLHS Color Guard has no uniforms at all--parents go to Party City to buy costumes that look like Color Guard uniforms. Also, there are not enough band uniforms to go around, and those uniforms that exist are worn and in poor condition because they are approximately 20 to 30 years old, according to parents and other members of the Board.

Morell said that when the band plays at events or attends competitions, they stand out against other schools who appear dressed in matching uniforms. It was reported that one creative student uses puff paint to create raised 'FLHS' letters on an orange shirt to identify what school they are with.

Park agreed that having everyone outfitted in uniforms, ones not decades old, instills a sense of pride in the students--pride in their school, pride in their community and pride in themselves--and it projects a positive image of the school to outsiders.

Board member Candee Romba added that athletic uniforms are lacking, as well, despite the fact that the Booster Club helps to raise funds.

The Board tentatively agreed to put the $22,645 in state aid towards the purchase of uniforms and include it in the budget introduction on March 28.   

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