The Weir High Band has endured a lot this year.

After recovering from another COVID-19 year, the former band director, Joshua Garrett, left to be closer to his family, due to his father just overcoming cancer. Garrett informed the band of his departure in August during the Weir High Band’s camp. He stayed until the band camp was
fully over, helping them learn the halftime show music.

Then, the band was left with no director. But what now? Kelly Lawton, assistant principal, was a band and choral teacher for 13 years before she became an administrator. Lawton volunteered to instruct and help the band as much as possible, when she was not doing administrative
duties.

Lawton stated, “I was asked to direct the band in order to continue the program and for the band to perform during marching season, while still doing my administrative duties.”

Lawton couldn’t always be there during the band class, so History Teacher Jason Angle chose to step up and help supervise and help where he can during the second block class.

Angle stated, “I try to keep them on task and use coaching philosophy and strategies. I am limited with what I am able to do, but fortunately for them, Ms. Lawton is here.”

Junior Savannah Moore, the Weir High Band field commander, is working her best as well to help guide the band in the right direction. Moore said, “I’m trying my hardest to make sure the band is doing everything they need to do to succeed without the band director, and most of the members in band are working hard every day to improve their playing skills and to be able to perform to the best of their abilities.”

The Weir Band Boosters helped with many things as well. Everything from fundraising and doing the concession stand to helping to feed the band before games and after rehearsals. Band Booster President Jessica Gray stated, “I coordinate with the school, students and parents for the games, events, and all band related activities. I love and enjoy supporting the band and especially the students any way I can.”

The band will still be performing at all of the home games, some of the away games, and at the homecoming parade. The band’s halftime show this year is Lady Gaga.

Despite everything, the band has never given up and continues to prosper throughout this difficult time.

At the Hancock County schools board meeting on September 26, the assignment of Samantha Lash as the Weir High School band director was approved. Lash began instruction on October 3.