High-school band celebrates wins, seeks up to $80,000 for new uniforms

Dominic Conti, director of dance at Middleton High School, briefed the board on the high-school band program’s recent competitive successes and resource needs. He said the marching band won division and valley competitions, the jazz and concert ensembles received superior ratings at district festivals, and several students received All-State and All-Northwest recognition.

Conti said the program has grown and that uniforms are a chief priority: existing uniforms are roughly 19 years old and require dry cleaning and repairs; new custom uniforms can range from about $700 up to $1,200–$1,500 depending on design. He said the band had raised approximately $5,000 to date but projects needing $70,000 to $80,000 to replace uniforms and increase capital support for instruments and supplies.

Trustees praised the students’ achievements and asked logistical and repertoire questions; Conti said he plans to run additional fundraisers and would welcome district or community sponsorships. The band performed a presentation for trustees earlier in the meeting and invited board members to attend competitions and games.