Program has grown to approximately 160 students
“The responsibility of the CHS Marching Band Booster Club, entirely made up of band student parents, is to collect and fundraise for regular operations. Despite having a booster program, the band’s regular operational costs are high, and additional funds for uniforms are crucial to support the band’s growth and continued success,” according to a release by the Booster Club.
The program has grown to approximately 160 students, according to the release. If that number stands, it would mean 20-30 students would be without uniforms.
“A total of 200 uniforms is required to outfit the entire band,” according to the release. “Hold your breath… Each uniform will cost $500.”
This writer is not much for math, but that would make the total $100,000 needed to dress the marching band for the 2026-2027 school year.
“All donations will go directly to the uniform fund in the hopes that they will reach their goal by Jan. 2026. With this winter order, the uniforms would be ready for the 2026 fall marching season,” according to the booster club.
Why is it important?
“A community’s high school marching band is the sound of tradition. Football games, pep rallies, dedications, competitions and parades touch so many different local circles. A donation for these uniforms is a donation to great kids and an outstanding program. The sights and sounds of the Cavalier Marching Band are spot on …”
The Booster Club says “deteriorating and stiff uniforms” don’t properly represent that tradition.
“When we purchased our last set of uniforms, they were $200-$300 each and the price has certainly risen since then. The new uniforms will be $500-600 each and we need 200 to size everyone properly. This will be the third uniform we have purchased in my forty years here at Cookeville High School. They typically last about 12-15 years and we have made these last longer than their expected life,” says Band Director David Talbert.
Calling all local businesses and donors. All donations can be sent to:
Cookeville High School, 1 Cavalier Way, Cookeville, TN 38501
Attn: Dawn White or Sarah Blankenship,
RE: Uniform Drive, CHS Band Boosters Club
“Be proud to rally behind the Marching Cavaliers and help them reach their goal and give them the new uniforms they deserve,” says the booster club.
From the release:
“Information and sponsor levels are available on Facebook and Instagram under CHS Marching Cavaliers Band Boosters. Contributions can be made through the Booster website HERE.
Reach out with questions to chsmarchingcavboosters@gmail.com regarding business sponsorship inquiries."
Boosters can also be reached at (765) CHS-BAND ((765) 247-2263).
Photo provided.
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