Mill Creek High School
Chorus Handbook
2013-2014
Stephanie D. Archer, Director Mr. Jason Lane, Principal
1 Chorus Handbook
2 Table of Contents
Welcome & Overview……..……………………………………..…4
Chorus Classes Offered………………...……………………...... …5
Making the Grade in Chorus………...... 6 & 7
Excused vs. Unexcused Concert Absence…………………………8
Performance Absence Procedure……………………………….…9
Classroom Policies and Procedures……………………………...10
Tardy Policy & Cell Phone Policy………………………………..11
Extra-Curricular Opportunities for Students…………………..12
Student Leadership Opportunities………………………………13
Uniforms………………………………………………….….14 & 15
Lettering in Chorus……………………………………………...... 16
Chorus Calendar...………………………………….……….17 & 18
Choral Alliance Association……………………………….....19 - 22
**Required Signature Pages (sign and return to choral office)……...... 23-25
3 8/7/2013
Greetings parents and students, Welcome! I am so excited to have the opportunity and privilege to work with you this coming year. As we begin the 2013-2014 year, I am looking forward to many events. I am looking forward to meeting my new chorus members and watching them continue their development as singers and musicians, and in watching our advanced students continue to excel and push themselves to be the best they can be. It is my goal for each student to grow vocally and musically by teaching superior vocal pedagogy, musicianship, choral skills, and rehearsal techniques. We will demonstrate AKS learned by performing at least four major concerts annually. Events this year I am looking forward to are, first and foremost, our concerts, GMEA District Honor chorus, All-State Chorus, Georgia High School Association Literary Meets, Show Choir, Mill Creek Idol, Hawkapella, chorus tailgate parties and…..a trip to Disney! This would be a good time for me to mention that chorus is Co-Curricular. According to Gwinnett County Board policy, all after school performances and rehearsals for performing arts classes are mandatory, and students will receive grades for their attendance and demonstration of AKS, including the AKS stating student will show responsibility to the group by being on time and following uniform guidelines. If rehearsals or performances are missed, their AKS performance assessment grade must be made up. (See pg. 5, 6 & 7) In the pages to follow of this chorus handbook you will be provided with the following information: Chorus calendar (all major performances included—additional dates/rehearsals TBA); Grading policy; Performance and rehearsal attendance policy; Various opportunities available to chorus students; Uniform details; CHARMS—our web-based information hub (which we need every parent to sign up); Student leadership opportunities; Mill Creek Choral Alliance Club information and Board members, including financial contributions and fundraising policies; and much more. While I do not expect you to read this entire handbook today, there are 3 important areas that need to be read before signing and returning the required documents at the back of this handbook. I request that students keep this handbook in a handy location as a reference throughout the year, to refer to as needed. (See back 3 pages, sign and return) As we continue our journey of musical excellence, it is my desire that each student develop skills which will benefit them for a life-time. And that their love of vocal music is nurtured and continues to grow! Musically yours, Mrs. Stephanie D. Archer, Director 678-714-5918 Office [email protected] www.millcreekhighschool.org Chorus Classes Offered at Mill Creek High School 2013-2014
4 Co-Curricular Chorus Performance Classes
2nd period – Intermediate Vocal Ensemble (TTB) 3 rd period - Mastery Choral Ensemble (SATB/SSATTBB) 5 th period- Intermediate Choral Ensemble (SSA) 7 th period- Advanced Choral Ensemble (SSA/SSAA) *All Choral classes are Co-Curricular: As per GCPS policy, performance-based classes are “Co-Curricular classes which require out of class activities, as stipulated by the teacher, and will determine a portion of the student’s grade. This includes concerts and rehearsals.”
There are a lot of events on our calendar, but the ones that are Co- Curricular/Required (and therefore part of student assessment) are listed below. Please put these dates on your calendars at home. The calendar will also be updated on the chorus website. If a student misses a concert, and the concert absence is excused, the grade must be made up or the student will receive a zero. Unexcused absences may not be made up. Concerts are 20% of a student’s grade.
Required for Assessment Chorus Performances/Rehearsals
Fall Concert: Tuesday, October 8, 2013 (See calendar for specific times)) Winter Concert: Monday, December 9, 2013 (See calendar for specific times) Pre-LGPE: Tuesday, March 4, 2014 at 7:00pm (No dress rehearsal) Spring Concert Dress Rehearsals: Monday, April 28th 6:30-9:00; Tuesday, April 29th 6:30-9:00 pm; Wednesday, April 30th 2:30- 5:00 pm Spring Concert Shows: Friday, May 2, 2014 7:00 pm Saturday, May 3, 2014 7:00 pm
5 . Making the Grade in Chorus!!!
Class Assessments 35% Rehearsal Competency* 25% Written Assignments 10%
Summative Assessment 45% Singing & Written Tests/Enrichment 25% Live Performances/Rehearsals 20%
Final Exam 20% Singing/Performance Test 10% Written Exam 10%
Remember - You earn your grade. It is not given to you—no class in high school is an “easy A”. Follow policies and participate to the best of your ability. You can be very successful!
*Rehearsal Competency-25% Grade
Students are expected to attend class and demonstrate choral rehearsal AKS in class activities on a daily basis. Students who are excessively absent or who cannot demonstrate proper rehearsal etiquette or vocal AKS will see a noticeable difference in their grade and will possibly be scheduled out of chorus.
Your Daily Rehearsal Competency grade is 25% of the semester grade, and is based on a concrete system. You will receive 100 points each week for demonstration of rehearsal competency. Each day during daily rehearsal (warm-ups, sight-singing, and rehearsing) students may earn up to 20 points for demonstrating competency (knowledge and execution) of choral AKS. If students demonstrate proper posture, watch/are attentive to the director, have appropriate rehearsal etiquette (staying on-task and no private conversations), are prepared for class with folder, pencil and text, are on-time to rehearsal, have no food or gum obstructing their singing mechanism, students will earn all 20 points. At the end of the week, points will be tallied and weekly grades will be assigned. Conversely, any AKS not met will result in a student losing points. Missing a chorus class rehearsal will not require a makeup assignment. Unexcused
6 absences from school will take off 20 participation points, daily. Excused absences will be “excused” and no points deducted as long as the students can catch up with information and training missed. Before and after school assistance is available for these purposes. Students with continual weekly absences will be scheduled out of chorus.
**What if a student is present in school, but has laryngitis, or generally doesn’t feel well making it physically impossible to be active in the choral rehearsal?
In order to earn the 20 rehearsal points for the day, the student must sit at a desk, obtain a “Vocal Rest” assignment, and complete it during the course of the class. This assignment will be graded and must contain play-by-play of classroom activity with analysis to receive full credit. Students may not be on vocal rest for more than 3 consecutive days without a doctor’s note.
Daily participation points can be deducted for these reasons: G- Instrument is obstructed by gum, food, candy, liquids other than clear water, objects, etc. F- Not following directions of the instructor or the student conductor. Not responding to auditory or visual commands in conducting or verbalization of instructions. E- Abuse or unauthorized use (such as playing the grand piano!) of choral equipment, failure to have folder and pencil, failure to return equipment to its location, mistreatment of chairs, etc. T- Instrument is otherwise engaged with talking or noisemaking during instruction or sing-time. P- Body is not in correct posture during sing-time. D- Any activity that disrupts the flow of instruction for others. Disrespect for others or the director during instruction. N- No singing activity. Off-task, disengaged, sleeping, doing homework for another class, unexcused absence from class, any non-participation. L- Unexcused tardiness that results in missed instruction. (Bell tardiness is handled through the school tardy policy- Excused tardiness does not become an issue unless habitual.)
What you need for class EVERYDAY:
1. Black Chorus Binder/folder 2. Pencil (remains in your binder) 3. Paper (remains in your binder) 4. Your music in a 1.5-2 inch black binder (student provided). This is your chorus notebook. All students must have their own binder filled with chorus octavo/music, blank paper and pencil EVERY day. 5. A positive attitude. Expect GREAT THINGS!
You are assigned a folder number and slot at the beginning of the semester. Your music is your responsibility. The music is your textbook. Participation points will be deducted for not having music during class hours.
Any instructional copies of music will be destroyed after use. These copies are legal if class sets have been purchased and are GCPS property. Instructional copies are for marking on. If provided an original piece of music, it must be returned in good condition, mark-free, at the end of the
7 semester. Never write in music with highlighter, pen, or anything permanent. Always use a pencil.
Excused vs. Unexcused Performance Absence
Performances are for you. YOU are the focus of the performance. You are the one being educated. You are the purpose of the concert or rehearsal. If you miss a performance or required rehearsal, it is like missing a test in an academic class. To be allowed the opportunity to make up your grade, you must first see if your absence meets the eligibility to be excused (see Eligibility for Excused Absence section below). THEN, you must make up your grade (see Making up Missed Performance Grade section below).
Eligibility for Excused Absence
FIRST: In order to be eligible for an excused absence, you must bring Mrs. Archer a note explaining your absence, so that she can verify eligibility. The note must be produced within 2 school days of return to school after the missed rehearsal or concert or 2 weeks before the absence if known in advance.
The following are EXCUSED absences from a concert or rehearsal: 1. Death in the immediate family. 2. Illness of student verified by a doctor's note. Please turn in a copy of note to choral office. 3. Family emergency, such as sudden illness of parent or sibling, verified by note from a parent. 4. A one-time special family activity such as a wedding, confirmation, graduation from college, etc. (This requires 2 weeks advance approval of director)
*Conflicts with rehearsals and performances for other activities, sports or groups outside of Mill Creek High are not excused. This is a class and performances are part of your assessment and school curriculum.
**Conflicts with activities or sports inside Mill Creek HS should be reported to Mrs. Archer 3 weeks in advance (You should never have to figure out these conflicts alone- the coaches/sponsors—we, can work out these conflicts satisfactorily).
The following are UNEXCUSED ABSENCES: All concerts are on the calendar now, so ample time has been given to avoid work scheduling conflicts, transportation, etc.
1. Work conflicts 2. Babysitting 3. Transportation problems 4. Forgetting
8 5. No uniform (wrong or inappropriate uniform)
PERFORMANCE ABSENCE PROCEDURE
If your absence is EXCUSED (see previous page):
If a chorus student is absent and is excused from either a rehearsal or performance, an alternate assignment must be completed. Please do not ASK for this assignment. It is required and is your responsibility to take the initiative and make it up. YOU HAVE 3 SCHOOL DAYS TO COMPLETE THE ASSIGNMENT. If the assignment is not completed within 3 school days, a ZERO will be given for the rehearsal or concert grade. This will be averaged into the category that counts for 20% of your grade.
The Make-up assignment rubric and instructions are on the front page of my handbook. Student should print and attach the rubric to the front of their report. The make-up assignment will be a 3 page, hand-written report on a composer of your choice. A fourth page should be included discussing choral AKS learned during the semester of the missed performance. Summary: 4 pages total; MUST be hand-written; if not hand-written, no credit.
For UNEXCUSED absences:
No make-up assignment will be accepted and no alternate assignment will be given. It is an automatic zero—performances are 20% of student assessment for chorus.
Chorus is co-curricular. Make plans to attend all outside of school required rehearsals and performances.
If you do not attend a required rehearsal or performance:
1. Verify if the absence is excused, or unexcused. 2. E-mail Mrs. Archer before the missed rehearsal or Performance, whenever possible. 3. Bring a note within 2 days of return to school. 4. If excused, complete the alternate assignment within 3 (three) school days of missed concert or rehearsal.
9 Please follow these Classroom Procedures which will affect chorus grades:
1. Show respect to everyone and everything in the chorus classroom at all times. If respect is shown from teacher-student, student-teacher, student-student, student-materials, the chorus room will always be a happy and positive place.
2. Dispose of anything in your mouth before you pass the trash can. Do not enter with food, drinks, or gum out and visible. Clear flavor-free water is allowed and encouraged. Please fill bottles before class starts.
3. Read the board, mentally note announcements, get materials needed for the rehearsal, and follow any applicable instructions.
4. Sit down in your assigned seat BEFORE the bell rings. Roll will be taken at this time. If consistently not in seat by bell ringing, you will have points deducted from grade and detention may be assigned.
5. When class starts, participate to the best of your ability.
6. No personal hygiene products (lotion, hairspray, spritzer, etc.) should be used in the chorus room. Some of our students are very allergic to scents.
7. Do not leave your personal belongings in the chorus room during the day.
8. Students are expected to have an agenda book in order to have a pass out of the classroom. Students may go to the restroom without an agenda on the Fine Arts Hallway. *permission must still be granted from Mrs. Archer to leave for any reason* Any other destination requires a signed agenda. Whenever leaving the chorus room, for ANY reason, sign out on clipboard.
9. It is preferred for students to visit the restroom and water fountain during transition to class out of respect for rehearsal and instructional time. You do not have to come to the classroom first to receive permission. Please make the stop along your way.
10 Cell Phones in the Chorus Room
Gwinnett County Board policy prohibits the use by a student of any personal electronic communication device during school instruction. Therefore, do not use your cell phone in the during chorus class. Cell phone usage during instructional/class time without express permission from the instructor is an AUTOMATIC REFERRAL and day of ISS—which goes on student permanent records. IPods and MP3 can be used for instructional purposes on enrichments days as accompaniment ONLY.
Cell phones, MP3, iPOD, etc. may be used during transition to and from class and during lunch, and after school hours without consequence. Silence them when entering instructional time.
Extra-Curricular Opportunities
11 MC Chorus Provided *require audition with Mrs. Archer Performing National Anthem solo/small ensemble at school sporting events Extra-curricular group performances: (possible: National Anthem at professional sporting event (Braves, Gladiators, or G-Braves); Lake Lanier Holiday Show, etc.) “Spectrum” Show Choir! (Singing/Dancing—auditioned)* o $100.00 extra-curricular participation fee to be a member of show choir o Open to any choral student: Auditions in August – check your chorus calendar Hawkappella! (A cappella—auditioned)* o $20 Club Dues to Participate o Open to All Mill Creek Students Solo opportunities for all students at concerts (Winter and Spring concert) Mill Creek Idol! November 1, 2013 *Auditioned* Performing for cluster and community events Performing in State or National Competition Festivals (TBA) Seniors: Perform for Baccalaureate and Mill Creek Graduation
GMEA (Georgia Music Educators Association) Opportunities: District 13 Honor Chorus in Athens, Ga. o After writing letter of intent and justification, students will be auditioned for the very limited spots for this honor. o October 25 & 26th, 2013 at Classic Center in Athens, GA LGPE (Large Group Performance Evaluation) GMEA ASC (All-State Chorus) – (Get more information at www.gmea.org. ) o Rigorous 2-part audition; only top 8% make it into this choir. o October 12, 2013 Audition #1 at North Gwinnett Middle School o January 16, 2014 (Thursday) Audition #2; (pass-off music) at Brookwood HS o Look for more information to come from your student in late August o Event: 3 days in Athens, Ga. February 20, 21 & 22, 2014 GMEA All-State Sight-Reading Chorus. o Auditions all day November 2, 2013 at North Gwinnett High School. o January 30-February 1, 2014 at Savannah, GA. Choral Council (Student Officers) 2013 -2014
12 These students are leaders for the MCHS chorus organization. They assist with organization, plan events, are the voice of the students to Mrs. Archer, and much more.
CJ Walters President Meredith Ashburn Co-Vice President Stephen Day Co-Vice President Elizabeth Godwin Secretary Rachel Best Librarian Alec Beard Historian Hannah Sims Publicity Kaley Barrett Stage Manager In addition to the choral council, each class will have student leaders (TBA): Warm-Up Captain Piano Captain Secretary Librarian
Mill Creek Chorus Uniforms
When we perform, we must all dress the same. This creates an aura of professionalism, superior
13 stage presence and unity for the choir. We look UNIFORMED. New students to chorus are invited to attend the uniform fitting on 8/15/13 after the new student/parent meeting.
New uniforms for Intermediate Class students can be purchased on August 15th after our new freshman/parent informational meeting which will begin at 6:30 p.m. Students not ordering with the group on August 15th must have new uniforms ordered on their own by: August 22, 2013. There are specific instructions on how to take measurements to ensure that the uniform you are ordering will fit; these instructions can be found on the vendors website—please be very careful about how you measure and order your uniform. For any young lady in the Advanced Women or Mastery class who needs a uniform exchange or who needs to purchase a uniform must make arrangements with Leigh Anne Day at [email protected] no later than August 22nd.
Formal Uniform Information
In order to perform, students must adhere to every aspect of the chorus uniform and conform to the uniform guidelines. This is part of the GCPS AKS “demonstrates responsibility to the group.” Guidelines and uniform specifics are as follows.
BOYS:
VEST/ TUXEDO SHIRT/BOW TIE: To be ordered online by students through Formalwear Outlet – www.formalwear-outlet.com Or by phone, toll-free: 1-877-837-3888. Uniforms must be ordered by August 22nd.
RED IRIDESCENT TAFFETA VEST: Item #J735 $39.00 BLACK BOW TIE: Item #U100 $3.50 WHITE WING TIPPED TUXEDO SHIRT: Item #G703 $15.99
(Items boys need to secure individually and uniform guidelines) PANTS: Black dress pants or tuxedo pants – May purchase black dress pants anywhere. SOCKS: Black dress socks. *Must be black—must have socks. SHOES: Solid, Black dress shoes SCENTS: No cologne or heavy scents—others around you could be allergic. JEWELRY: Small earring, if desired, is acceptable. No bracelets, necklaces, or other items. Black cuff-links are ok if desired. TUXEDO SHIRTS: Should be wrinkle-free/ironed and tucked into pants properly.
GIRLS:
CHORUS DRESS: the new choral dress is called the “CONCERTO”.
14 If ordered on the night of the parent meeting, the dresses will be purchased in a group order at a discount to you. Because a group order will be made, the dress will cost $49.00 plus $8.00 for the brooch (rhinestone leaf). Parents will be able to see a sample dress and take measurements of their student.
If not ordered the night of the parent meeting, you will be responsible to order your students dress individually online at www.formalwear-outlet.com or call Formalwear Outlet toll-free at: 1-877-837-3888.
CONCERTO DRESS– Item #D787 and Rhinestone Leaf pin Item #A803. Uniforms must be ordered NO LATER than August 22nd. The price purchasing individually with Formalwear outlet is $59.00 plus $8.00 for the pin.
Rhinestone Pin Replacements -May be purchased from the MCCA for $10.00.
DRESS FITTING GUIDELINES:
1. The dress should be hemmed so that it is ½-1" from the floor. Wear your character shoes or black dress shoes with a 1-2 in" heel when having it measured. Please do not measure it or hem it without your shoes. 2. No undergarments should be visible from the armhole. The armhole should be fitted. 3. The dress should gently fall from the waist. It should NOT bunch or pucker above the rear or the waistline. 4. The neckline of the dress should lay flat on the upper chest. You should not be able to look down the front of the dress and no cleavage should be visible. 5. Hygiene: Students should not wear any scented products out of respect to those who could have asthma, or be allergic. Including lotions and body sprays. Also, students should put on deodorant at the beginning of their day and NOT reapply due to the residue that is left on the black dresses (we are speaking from experience here—the deodorant does not like to wash out!).
(Items girls need to purchase or secure individually and other guidelines)
SHOES: Solid Black 1-2 in. closed toe dress shoes; Character shoes recommended-- Can be purchased through Liberts at: www.liberts.com (Chorus Line shoe) or at any local dance store. HOSE: Black panty hose or knee-highs free of runs. Wear appropriate undergarments with no parts showing. Do not wear pants or shirts under your uniform. PERFUMES: Please do not wear any perfumes as people (your fellow choral members) can be sensitive and/or allergic to scented products. JEWELRY: Any earrings should be small and compliment your chorus uniform. Necklaces may not be worn. Please wear only one ring per hand. The rhinestone pin that comes with the dress will be worn. If the pin becomes lost or damaged (missing stones) it must be replaced. Replacement cost is $10.00. HAIR: Please keep your hair secured away from your face so as not to obstruct vision and interfere with facial expression. Up-dos are sophisticated and look lovely. Lettering in Chorus Chorus awards are given at the end of the year at the Chorus Banquet, sponsored by the chorus
15 booster club. Any student who is a member of the MCAA (Mill Creek Choral Alliance), and who is in good financial standing within the club, is eligible to earn chorus awards and a VARSITY Chorus letter. Students will receive a Letter Application on which to log all annual activities and points earned in the chorus program. Point verification will be verified by Choral Council throughout the year. At the end of the year, if a student has met the minimum of points to earn VARSITY status, they will “Letter”! There are 5 levels of awards which can be earned by Mill Creek Choral Students: Certificate *Recognition for students giving a year of service to the MCHS Chorus Program who have met all performance requirements. Freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors are eligible for this award. Letter *Received after a student’s 1st year of earning enough points to Varsity in Chorus *Could be earned by a freshman, sophomore, junior or senior) 1. Participates in chorus for an entire year and maintains AT LEAST a 92 average in chorus. 2. Meets all obligations for required concerts and rehearsals. 3. Has earned enough points to “Varsity” in Chorus. (See point sheet) 4. Has no discipline referrals or behavior contracts in chorus.
Lyre (received after a student receives a letter; 2nd year Varsity status) *Could be earned by a sophomore, junior or senior) 1. Participates in chorus for an entire year and maintains AT LEAST a 92 average in chorus. 2. Meets all obligations for required concerts and rehearsals. 3. Has earned enough points to “Varsity” in Chorus. (See point sheet) 4. Has no discipline referrals or behavior contracts in chorus.
Bar (received after a student receives a letter and a lyre; 3 or 4 years Varsity) *Could be earned by a junior or senior) 1. Participates in chorus for an entire year and maintains AT LEAST a 92 average in chorus. 2. Meets all obligations for required concerts and rehearsals. 3. Has earned enough points to “Varsity” in Chorus. (See point sheet) 4. Has no discipline referrals or behavior contracts in chorus.
Mill Creek Chorus Calendar
16 2013-2014 School Year *Events in bold are required for all students* August 15th 6:30-8:00 PM 22nd Order Deadline
TBA 2:35-3:25:00 PM 26th 2:30-6:00 PM 27th-28th 2:30-4:00 PM 29th 2:30-5:00 PM 30th Class time 30th Membership Due
5th Deadline
6th 2:15-6:30 PM
7th 8:45 AM-3:00 PM TBA 2:30-5:30 PM
10th 7:00 PM 12th All Day 12th Deadline
27th Class Time 27th Class Time TBA After School
1st Membership Due 4th 2:15-6:30pm
7th 7:00 PM 8th 6:00 PM 7:30 PM
TBA 2:30-7:00PM 12th All-Day 15th 6:30 PM 24th 2:30-6:30 PM 25th/26th All-Day TBA Class Time 29th 6:30-9:00 PM
1st 7:00 PM 2nd All-Day (usually AM) 19th Morning 22nd Class Time
17 8th 6:30 PM 9th 7:00 PM Concert *2:30-5:00 rehearsal TBA Evening TBA Winter Break January 9th After School 16th After school (TBA) 24th All-Day 30th-Feb 1st All-Day
Week of 10th Class Time TBA All-Day 20th-22nd All-Day NONE Class Time
3rd 7:00 pm
7th After school 15th TBA Week of 17th TBA
28th Class Time
None Class Time 29th 6:15-9:00 PM 30th 2:30 – 5:15 PM
1st TBA 2nd 7:00 PM 3rd 7:00 PM 9th Class Time 12th 6:00 PM 15th TBA 16th Class Time 18th 2:00 PM 22nd TBA
Other events and dates to be determined; dates subject to change
18 Welcome to the Mill Creek Choral Alliance! Mrs. Archer and the Mill Creek Choral Alliance, Inc. are glad you have chosen to be a part of the BEST choral program in Gwinnett County Public Schools, if not the State! Note our new name, keeping us aligned with the other fine arts programs at MCHS! The Mill Creek Choral Alliance (MCCA) strives to make this the most professional and enjoyable choice for Mill Creek High School students. We are an approved IRS non-profit 501(c)3 organization with an Executive Board committed to providing the best support, so that students and faculty are equipped to produce the finest quality music instruction and performances possible consisting of co-curricular (required) and extracurricular opportunities.
Required Graded Co-Curricular Participation Extra-Curricular Participation Show Choir Fall Concert GHSA Literary Meets Winter Concert GMEA Honor Chorus/GMEA All State Chorus Spring Chorus Show Lake Lanier Holiday Concert Large Group Performance Evaluation (LGPE) Winter trip to Walt Disney World Chorus Tailgate Parties and much more!
Membership in the Mill Creek Choral Alliance (MCCA) is not required but each chorus student is encouraged to support the financial needs required to operate a quality choral program, including but not limited to: accompanist fees, registration fees, clinicians, music, supplies, sound equipment, awards and recognitions, spring show props and backdrops, etc. There are no fees to participate in the curricular aspects of chorus, except for your student's uniform requirements, which is only a one-time expense; however, any student wishing to participate in any extra-curricular (MCCA club-supported) activity, must be a fully-vested member of the MCCA, or (if approved by Mrs. Archer) will be subject to alternate payment option.
In addition, MCCA membership offers extra-curricular benefits to students by providing them the opportunity to audition for and participate in extra-curricular activities and events throughout the year that build camaraderie and friendships! Students become a member of the MCCA in order to participate in extracurricular activities by paying an annual dues membership fee. In addition, your student will receive a 2013/2014 MCHS Chorus t-shirt, and a MCHS Chorus car decal at no additional out of pocket costs.
2013/2014 Annual Membership Dues: $140.00 Payment #1: $80.00 is due Friday, August 30. Payment #2: $60.00 is due Tuesday, October 1. Once membership dues of $140.00 have been met, by donation or through the fall fundraiser, 80% of any additional monies earned through fundraising will go directly to your students account. This personal account money can be used to pay All-State Registration fees, spring show tickets, banquet tickets, the Chorus trip, or even towards the next year’s membership dues! 2013/2014 Fundraisers Fall Candle Fundraiser (scented candles) One of our most requested items! MC Idol! NEW date of November 1st! Open to all MCHS students and lots of fun. Individual and Class Chorus portraits (NEW) No selling! Mrs. Archer, MCCA Executive Board, and I look forward to the BEST year ever! Please contact me, or one of the Executive Board members, if you have any questions.
Jan Best Your 2013/2014 Mill Creek Choral Alliance President
19 Mill Creek High School Choral Director: Mrs. Stephanie Archer
www.millcreekhighschool.org ♦ Office: 678-714-5918
Your Choral Alliance Board members for the 2013-2014 School Year
Name Position Email Address
Jan Best President [email protected]
Michelle Miller Vice President/Volunteers [email protected]
Jodie Buckley Secretary [email protected]
Tomasyn Breazeale Treasurer [email protected]
Jacqui Morgenroth Fundraiser Coordinator [email protected]
Angie Barrett Decorations Coordinator [email protected]
Leigh Anne Day Member at [email protected] Large/Uniforms
Your 2013-2014 Student Choral Council
20 Name Position
CJ Walters President
Meredith Ashburn & Vice Presidents
Stephen Day
Elizabeth Godwin Secretary
Hannah Sims Publicist
Alec Beard Historian
Rachel Best Librarian
Kaley Barrett Production/Stage Manager
Mill Creek Choral Alliance, Inc.
Financial Policy
Funds to support the Mill Creek Choral Alliance, Inc.’s budget will generally come from two major sources: payments from chorus members and fundraisers. Gifts and funds from other sources are also encouraged.
No student will be denied participation in the chorus program because of financial inability to make payments. A family in this situation should contact the MCCA Treasurer and/or President to discuss this in confidence. The Treasurer or President will work with the family to restructure the payment or to arrange participation in fund raising activities in lieu of payment. These arrangements must be made before the first payment is due, or as soon as the hardship arises. Families are encouraged to create structured payment plans as needed.
Payments from Chorus Members and Their Families Each chorus student and his or her family are requested to pay a total of $140 per year through fundraisers or regular payments to meet annual membership dues. The $140 per year finances the general running of the Mill Creek Choral Alliance. The MCCA helps fund expenses for chorus performances and helps support the chorus program by providing additional funding for; LGPE registration fees, post-concert celebrations, club activities, accompanist and clinician fees, office supplies, music, spring concert props, concert decorations, end-of-year awards and banquet costs and other expenses related to running the MCCA. Show Choir, Honors Chorus, tailgating parties, Lake Lanier Performance, competition choir, and All-State chorus are extracurricular activities for chorus students and participation is not part of the student’s grade. Any chorus student wishing to participate in these extracurricular activities and who wishes to letter in chorus must have paid their first $80.00 dues installment by August 30th. Full
21 MCCA membership dues of $140.00 are due by October 1st, 2013 (either by contribution or contribution plus fundraising profit).
Chorus students and families who wish to participate in these extra-curricular activities without participating in the MCCA must make arrangements through the choral director to pay separately, on their own, any entry fees charged by GMEA, or the activity sponsor, including any other expenses involved with the activity.
If you choose to not be a member of the MCCA, here are the individual activity participation costs: GMEA Honor Chorus: $110.00 ($55.00 registration fee + $20.00 rehearsal CD + $35.00 hotel over-night) All-State Chorus: $218.00 ($18.00 registration fee + $25.00 travel + $50.00 music and rehearsal fee + $125.00 hotel fees in Athens) **some of these extra costs are not covered by MCCA membership – registration and music fees will be collected from each student regardless of membership. MCCA membership covers travel and hotel fees. $10.00 fee to participate in LGPE field trip Students who Varsity in Chorus and earn a Letter, will be charged $15.00 for the cost of the letter.
The first MCCA payment of $80 is due by August 30th with the second payment of $60 due by October 1st.
Here is a summary of what your MCCA membership covers: Contribution to general expenses of running the choral department (i.e.: accompanist & clinician fees, LGPE registration fees, concert props and decorations, choral office supplies, sheet music for students, sound equipment, end-of-year awards, custodian fees; Etc.) Chorus t-shirt (required to have to participate in extra-curricular events) Two complimentary tickets to the chorus Spring Show One complimentary student ticket to the chorus awards banquet Contribution to Choral Scholarship Program offered by MCCA Travel and Hotel expenses for GMEA events Car Window chorus decal Uniforms Students are asked to cover expenses related to their chorus uniforms.
Fundraisers Fundraisers may be used to raise the $140.00 requested payment to completely fund the Chorus Budget. All parents and students are encouraged to participate in order to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses and to raise each student’s fair share of choral department expenses. Amounts raised through these fundraisers are used to fund the MCCA budget and will not accrue to the individual benefit of the student. 80% of all money raised over and above $140 is placed in the student's Chorus account to be used for trips, clinics, and any other chorus expenses the student may incur. Students accounts may be accessed through Charms Office Assistant (see page 24 for details).
Student Chorus accounts will be kept for the student's benefit throughout the time he/she is enrolled in the chorus program. If the student drops out of the program, the amount will be forfeited to the chorus and will be used to fund the budget of the chorus.
Upon graduating, if any money remains in his or her account, the student has the following options: pass the money on to another family member in the chorus program or give the money to the MCCA for a specific purpose. If one of these options is not chosen, the money will be transferred to the general fund of the MCCA on June 1. No refunds may be made.
Refunds Money will be refunded to students who sign up for a trip, but, with adequate notice, are unable to attend said trip.
Payments
22 Payments are expected on or before the established schedule dates. If you need additional time or are having financial difficulties, please contact the MCCA Treasurer or President prior to the due date to work out payment alternatives. Reminders may be sent home to the family through the student or via the email provided in CHARMS. Payments for any chorus activity can be made from a student’s account. Delinquent fees will be deducted from a student’s account to fulfill outstanding chorus fee obligations. Delinquent fees are any moneys owed the chorus from past expenses, i.e. previous year’s Chorus Fees or fees for extra activities like All-State Chorus. Students transferring into the Mill Creek school district and/or joining after the first semester are requested to pay $60 in membership dues.
Chorus Trip Cost The costs of any trips the chorus may take are in addition to all other costs. To determine the cost per student of an anticipated trip, the chorus director, with advice and consent of the executive board, shall estimate the total cost of the trip. This total amount shall be divided by the number of students taking the trip to arrive at the per student cost. The MCCA should provide a detailed listing of anticipated trip expenses to the students and parents in advance of the trip for approval. Students will be responsible for the payment of such trips, either by excess money in their chorus account (over the $140.00 general donation) or by paying individually.
Distribution of Policy In order that the parents/guardians of the student know what is expected of them and their student, the executive board shall annually communicate this policy to all returning students from Mill Creek High School and to the parents of rising ninth graders from Osborne and Jones Middle Schools as well as parents of all new students to the Choral Department.
Charms Office Assistant Chorus information and money in your students account can be accessed through Charms at www.charmsoffice.com. Highlight ENTER and select Parents/Students/Members. Enter the Mill Creek High School code: Mill Creek Chorus. In the Student Area Password box type in your student’s school ID and click ENTER. A menu of items will appear. To view your student chorus account, select Finances. If you have any questions pertaining to your student’s account, please contact the 2013-2014 Treasurer, Tomasyn Breazeale- [email protected]. Mill Creek Choral Alliance, Inc. MCHS Choral Alliance Association, Inc. Payment Agreement 2013-2014
Student Name: ______Class Period: ______Grade: ______
Participation in the Choral program at Mill Creek High School includes curricular, co-curricular and extra-curricular opportunities. The required curricular and co-curricular activities are part of your child’s course grade. There are no fees to participate in this portion other than your child’s uniform requirements; however, we encourage each student to support the MCCA, and contribute their fair share of the expenses concurred in running a choral program. We also encourage you to participate in the extra-curricular aspects of the Choral Program.
To participate in the extra-curricular activities, we ask that you support the program by paying an annual MCCA membership fee. These dues go towards the costs for LGPE fees, Annual Banquet and Awards dinner, Picnics and gatherings, Spring Concert costumes and decorations, adjudicators and accompanists, Rehearsal and Concert recording CDs, to name a few, as well as the general music and supplies not covered by the County stipend.
MCCA is able to accept electronic payments via PayPal from your Charms Account. This is the preferred method of payment since it is automatically applied directly to your child’s chorus account. We do accept checks as well. Checks need to be in an envelope with your child’s name on the outside of the envelope and put into the black lockbox located in the Chorus Room outside Mrs. Archer’s office.
23 MCCA Dues Membership Fee (Select all that apply):
____We will pay our dues via PayPal from the Charms site. (1st payment of $80 is due by August 30th; Final Payment of $60 is due by October 1st).
_____ Enclosed is my complete payment for $140.00.
_____ Enclosed is my 1st Payment of $80.00 due by August 30th.
_____ We choose to fundraise the balance due by October 1st.
_____ I am choosing not to participate in the extra-curricular aspect of chorus, and I further understand that I will be required to pay for my chorus t-shirt and my costs for individual activities, including LGPE field trip.
Please list the total amount of your chorus fee here $______Ck#______or Cash_____ (Please make checks payable to: MCCA).
Place this form along with payment in an envelope, into the black lockbox located in the Chorus Room outside Mrs. Archer’s office.
By signing below, I am agreeing to fulfill my compensatory obligations to MCCA before the Spring Concert of this school year.
______Student Name Chorus Class Period
______/____/_____ Parent Signature Date PARENTS – WE NEED YOU!!! 2013-2014 Chorus Parent Volunteer Form
The students of the choral department and I need your help during the school year. If you are willing to volunteer, please fill out the following information and indicate the areas you would like to assist. Thank you so much. We need you and want you here! Michelle Miller will also be contacting you throughout the year through Volunteer Spot- which is a great way to see what our needs are for upcoming events and sign up online.
Parent/Guardian Name
24 Student Name Grade:
Home Telephone Number
Work Telephone Number
Cell Phone Number
E-mail Address
I will help in the following areas:
_____ Usher/Pass out programs at concerts
_____ Help with fundraisers
_____ Help with Tail Gate
_____ Chaperone students at concerts *very important*
_____ Chaperone students backstage at shows *very important*
_____ Bake sweets or supply snacks
_____ Help with Spirit Wear
_____ Chaperone after school rehearsals
_____ Help build sets for the Spring Show
_____ Chaperone field trips
_____ Chaperone/ride the bus to Honors Chorus (2 days)
_____ Chaperone LGPE (Large Group Performance Evaluation)
_____ Chair a committee for the MCHS Choral Alliance Association
_____ Videotape concerts
_____ Plan the Choral Banquet
25 _____ Help decorate/set up for the Choral Banquet
_____ Other (please list):______
*REQUIRED* Parent Information and Choral Department Agreements (Please fill out, sign and return to Mrs. Archer by August 13) Student Name: ______Class: ______
By initialing each aspect listed and by signing below, chorus students and parents acknowledges that they have received a chorus handbook and understand the guidelines, procedures and expectations therein which the responsibility of Mill Creek Chorus members are. (Please initial in the provided blank and then sign below)
______I received a chorus handbook which includes: all policies of the Mill Creek chorus, grading procedures, and the annual chorus events calendar. I also know it can be accessed on Mrs. Archer’s web page.
______I understand that chorus is co-curricular and that performances and rehearsals are required and attendance affects my student’s grade. Performances which are missed and are excused REQUIRE a make-up assignment be turned in 3 days after missed concert. (Pg. 5-9)
______I understand and agree to provide my student with the appropriate chorus uniform and will conform to the uniform guidelines therein. (If needed, students must have purchased or exchanged a uniform by August 22, 2013). (Pg. 14-15)
______I agree to fill out my contact information on the website www.Charmsoffice.com in order to receive e-mail communications from Mrs. Archer and our Choral Alliance. Through Charms, I also understand that I have access to the financial status of my student. (Pg. 22-24)
______I received information regarding student choral alliance voluntary membership, membership dues/fees installments, and how such membership affects my student’s eligibility to participate in MCCA sponsored extra-curricular events, and awards. (Page 22-23)
______I give permission for my student to be photographed and videotaped at chorus concerts.
Student Signature: ______Date: ______
Parent Signature: ______Date: ______
26 Parent E-Mail: ______(Please print legibly—Thanks!)
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