Image Credit: Stewarts Creek High School
The Tennessee Conservative Staff –
A high school marching band from Middle Tennessee was selected to march in the 60th Presidential Inaugural Parade, but unfortunately, due to weather and the movement of events, the SCHS Band, as well as the other high school bands invited, will not be able to participate.
The Stewarts Creek High School marching band was chosen by the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee and would have been the only band from Tennessee at the event on January 20.
Principal Clark Harrell said in a statement, “This invitation is a true testament to the hard work, passion, and dedication of our students. We’re thrilled to showcase our students at such a prominent national performance and grateful for the ongoing support from the school and community.”
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for our students,” band director Michael Chester told The Tennessean. “We are humbled by the magnitude of the event and proud of how our students’ dedication and hard work brought them to this opportunity to represent the Town of Smyrna and serve our nation.”
After learning they had been selected to perform, the band also found out they would have to cover the $120,000 it would cost for 120 band members and 40 staff members and chaperones to make the trip.
The group raised $80,000 through a fundraising campaign. On Thursday, Tractor Supply stepped up and surprised students by donating an additional $40,000 to cover the remainder.
On January 17th, the school put out a notice that The Presidential Inaugural Committee has notified them that due to weather and the movement of events, the SCHS Band, as well as the other high school bands invited, will not be able to participate.
“This is very disappointing news, as we know that our students and staff have spent countless hours working and preparing for the parade,” said Principal Dr. Clark Harrell of Stewarts Creek High School.
Harrell continued, “In the spirit of resilience and because a vast majority of the travel expenses are non-refundable, the band will still travel to Washington, D.C. We are working with members of the Tennessee Congressional Delegation on details for a public performance in honor of the 60th Presidential Inauguration.”
“We are very thankful for the overwhelming support we have received from our community. The financial contributions from individuals and businesses from all across the Volunteer State have been truly humbling.“
Harrell said that while the school is not able to perform in the parade, they are still “proud to represent the great State of Tennessee in Washington and in our performance honoring this historic occasion.”
