Hello Ed Reps!
This week, I wanted to discuss how to close out the school year like a professional so you’re set up and ready to roll when fall arrives.
Last week, we talked about having that final conversation with your band and orchestra directors. This week, let’s talk about what you need to do to make sure you’re ready to go.
The first thing is to resolve as many outstanding school issues as possible before summer really begins.
What comes to mind here are things like making sure orders are delivered, purchase orders are submitted, invoices are in the bookkeepers’ offices, and everything is ready to be paid. If you have any outstanding invoices or receivables that need attention, now is the time to address them.
In fact, many school fiscal years end on June 30. If you have money outstanding, you may want to stop reading this newsletter and get on the phone with those bookkeepers. Collecting those payments before the fiscal year closes can make a big difference.
Next, think about and document everything that was discussed during this school year that you’ll need to remember next year.
What major opportunities are on the horizon?
Did a director mention wanting to purchase a new drumline? Upgrade their PA system? Put together a lease with the boosters so they can finally replace those aging double reeds? What other significant projects or purchases were discussed throughout the year?
Write those things down.
Doing so will make you look like the most prepared person in the room when you return in the fall. More importantly, you’ll be ready to discuss solutions to problems that your educators are already thinking about.
Next, plan any summertime visits you’re going to make.
Summer can be hit or miss. Some schools are open, some are closed, and teachers and students are often all over the place. However, nearly every high school has some kind of summer band activity in the coming weeks.
Identify the programs that are most important to your relationships and make plans to attend.
And don’t just show up.
What are you going to do when you get there? Are you bringing snacks and water? Sitting down with the director? Running a sectional with the trombone section?
Also remember that not all summer activities revolve around marching band. Many districts host elementary camps, middle school camps, and other music-related programs throughout the summer. Make an effort to be involved. Don’t disappear for six weeks and expect everything to pick up where it left off.
Finally, take some time now to make sure every account is organized and ready for the fall.
Is space on your schedule already reserved? Is the account cleaned up? Are outstanding orders resolved? Can you walk into that band or orchestra room during the first week of school and start with a clean slate?
That’s the goal for every account.
That’s a lot to work on, so get to it!
Have a great summer on the road!