Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Question
Q: I'm new here, what exactly is a Booster?
Answer
A: A booster - in this case, a Johnson Band Booster (JBB) - is a parent/guardian of a student in the Jaguar Band or one of our middle school feeder programs. You became a JBB when your student first chose band in 6th grade!
Q: What do Boosters do?
A: We provide support in the form of volunteer time and money. Both of these aspects are extremely important! Without volunteers, we cannot raise the necessary funds to support the Jaguar Band program or provide physical assistance in the form of uniform fittings, truck driving, feeding the band, etc.
Q: When/where do you need my help?
A: The short answer is now and everywhere! Our volunteer coordinators can help you find your niche so that your time and talents have the greatest impact on our program.
Q: Why do we do this?
A: A: We do this to support our band students and staff. While they are perfecting their shows, we are behind the scenes raising the funds necessary to provide everything they need. We are also fitting uniforms, ordering meals, driving trucks and chaperoning trips. It is a group effort and we need you to make it happen!
Q: Can I have booster funds allocated directly to my student's account?
A: The IRS prohibits booster clubs from distributing any funds to individual members. Booster club funds and events must benefit the group as a whole, not its individual members.
Q: What is the 8 Hour Rule?
The 8 Hour Rule is a specific set of guidelines for rehearsals outside the regular school day. Our directors are keenly aware of the rule and work well within the guidelines. Here's the link to the UIL page explaining the rule: http://www.uiltexas.org/music/marching-band/eight-hour-marching-band-rule-qa
Q: Do we REALLY need all this fundraising? Where does the money go?
Yes… we really do! Each year, JBB donates hundreds of thousands of dollars for things like props for the marching shows, summer band instructors, region master classes, and marching technicians. Funds are also used for Color Guard expenses, new instruments and equipment, and travel expenses like trailer upkeep and insurance costs. We know that fundraising isn’t everyone’s favorite thing… but it truly is necessary to allow our band to maintain the current level of performance and success.