STRIPLING MIDDLE SCHOOL

CHOIR HANDBOOK

2019-2020
Amanda Flores - Head Choir Director
Garrett Kheshtinejad - Assistant Choir Director
 STRIPLING MIDDLE SCHOOL
2019-2020 CHOIR HANDBOOK

Welcome, Stripling Choir Students and Parents!

This will be a very exciting year as we prepare for several concerts, UIL Contest, and MANY more events. We
want to have the best year ever with our Choir Students! This will be Stripling Choir’s 5th year under the
direction of Amanda Flores. Given the success of our program in recent years, we had to add another Choir
Director to the family. We are excited to welcome, Garrett Kheshtinejad, as our new Assistant Choir Director!

As your directors, we believe that choir should be a fun and positive experience where students develop
musical and vocal skills, learn valuable life lessons about teamwork and self-discipline, learn to read music,
perform in many different vocal styles, exercise respect for one another, and take pride in their
accomplishments. Through hard work and determination, we will have a fabulous year!

In 6​th​, 7​th​, and 8​th​ Grade Choir, students learn, and continue the fundamentals and good habits they will use
throughout their time in choir in Middle School, all the way to High School. We will focus on healthy vocal
technique, vowel production for choral singing, music literacy and proper concert etiquette as outlined in the
TEKS (Texas State Objectives)​. Students learn to perform a variety of repertoire through unison,
part-singing, as well as vocal exploration as the voice changes. This year, Stripling Middle has seven different
choirs, 6​th​ Grade Treble, 6​th​ Grade Tenor-Bass, 7​th​/8​th​ Grade Tenor-Bass, 7th/8th Grade Sub-Junior Varsity
Treble, 7​th​/8​th​ Grade Junior Varsity Treble, 7​th​/8​th​ Grade Varsity Treble, and Show Choir, all of which perform at
each concert separately and together.

Please take the time to look over the attached choir handbook for everything you need to know about the
Stripling Choir Program. We want to help you understand the guidelines and expectations. ​ ​Take special note
of all of our social media resources, as we use those heavily for communication throughout the year.

The choir handbook acknowledgement form needs to be turned in for TEST GRADE by August 30th.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to e-mail (preferred) either of us or leave a message at
Stripling’s front office. Please also make sure to subscribe to all of our social media!

Thank you so much for your cooperation and support of the Stripling Choir. We are looking forward to a great
school year!

Musically,

Amanda Flores, Head Choir Director, ​Amanda.flores@fwisd.org

Garrett Kheshtinejad, Assistant Choir Director, ​garrett.kheshtinejad@fwisd.org
 STRIPLING CHOIR STANDARDS OF EXCELLENCE
The material listed below will help each choir member to better know and understand the expectations and
responsibilities for success.

Each choir member will be expected to:

● Learn and develop proper vocal production and skills required for successful choral singing
● Develop and maintain sight-reading skills
● Develop a basic music knowledge
● Perform at all concerts
● Maintain good school attendance
● Maintain eligibility by receiving grades of 70 or above in all classes.
● Develop excellent daily rehearsal skills
● Learn to work as a team
● Participate in Choir social activities
● Contribute to the success of Stripling Middle School by promoting good citizenship and school spirit.

CHOICE OF MUSIC
Music is a universal language. Therefore, it is one of the most effective ways to learn about diverse cultures
and historical periods. Choir directors in Fort Worth ISD make every effort to teach music that represents
diverse genres and styles from various periods and cultures. Music is chosen for its educational value as
outlined in the Texas Education Knowledge & Skills.

PHILOSOPHY
The study and performance of music is an opportunity that our young people of today truly need. It is not our
goal as teachers to make professional musicians of our students, but rather it is to instill in them a sense of
high musical standards and enable them to fully enjoy the life-long benefits of making music. Recent studies
show that students who participate in music programs such as choir become the strongest students,
academically speaking, in their schools. The skills learned in our school choir program - self-discipline,
increased self-esteem, group cooperation, commitment, responsibility to self and to group, and teamwork - will
be reflected in a successful adult life. Knowing that great performances are the fruits of a considerable
investment in preparation, hard work, and lessons learned from failure, the opportunity to enjoy a new level of
communication and self-expression is the goal for every musician, young or old. Creativity is within us all, and
the language of music serves as the perfect vehicle for the journey in personal growth and in the development
of knowledge and skills.
 CO-CURRICULAR VS. EXTRA-CURRICULAR
Choir is an academic class as well as a performing ensemble. Participation consists of a combination of co-curricular and
extra-curricular events.

Co-Curricular events​ are required events that are part of the FWISD Choir Curriculum. These events are considered to
be of high priority in choir and are each worth ​major participation or test grades​. Concerts are viewed as performance
assessments and are worth 2 test grades. Each rehearsal is worth 1 test grade.

● Examples: Rehearsals and Concerts that are usually scheduled outside of the school day.
● When: All available dates are listed on the 2019-2020 Choir Calendar that can be found in this handbook. The
Directors will also send a weekly e-mails with reminders and dates coming up. Co-Curricular events will be
listed as “Required” on the calendar and will list which choir needs to be in attendance. Sometimes, additional
dates are added throughout the year and notification will be given in advance.
● Grading: Students will earn one major grade each for all co-curricular rehearsal evaluations and all
co-curricular performance evaluations. Again, concerts are 2 tests grades, and rehearsals are 1 test grade.

Extra-Curricular events​ are optional events that are not graded. These events are primarily social and enhance the
experience of each choir member.

● Examples: Social activities

● When: All available dates are listen on the 2019-2020 Choir Calendar.
● Participation: Students’ behavior and participation in school, choir class, rehearsals, and concerts will affect
their ability to participate in extra-curricular events throughout the year, and co-curricular events at the
Director’s discretion (including, but not limited to, rehearsals, concerts, competition, etc.)

ABSENCES
Excused Absences​ require prior notification except in the case of illness or emergency (a written note, e-mail, or phone
call from a parent is required in all cases). Excused absences include illness, family emergency, religious events, or
conflict with another FWISD activity. Make-up work will be assigned and is due 7 days after the missed event, for the
credit of a 100. Documentation from parents is required for an absence to be excused within 48 hours BEFORE the event
date or 24 hours AFTER the event date.​ Students with excused absences will be given an alternate assignment to
complete and will be able to turn this in for a credit of 100% (this applies to rehearsals, concerts, competitions or
any other performance that is required/graded). DO NOT ASSUME THAT IF YOUR CHILD HAS A GAME
NIGHT/OTHER SCHOOL EVENT THAT THEY WILL BE EXCUSED FROM CONCERTS. It is the student’s
responsibility to inform both a choir director and or coach/teacher in advance.

Students with ​unexcused absences​ will also be given an alternate assignment to be turned in 7 days after the missed
event, but only for the reduced credit of a 70.
*If a student misses a dress rehearsal before a REQUIRED concert, It will be up to the discretion of the
directors as to whether or not this student is allowed to perform.

Examples of Unexcused Absences include, ​but are not limited to​: NON-SCHOOL sports/music/art/etc activities,
babysitting, birthdays, discipline, oversleeping, and transportation issues are not considered excused absences.
 GRADING POLICY
GRADES WILL BE ASSESSED ON A PERCENTAGE SYSTEM AS FOLLOWS:

● Daily Participation (in class & outside of school): 60%

● Classroom Assignments and Quizzes: 10%
● Major Test Grades (Concerts, Rehearsals, Tests, Projects, etc): 30%

Daily Participation = 60% of each Six Weeks Grade

Daily grades exemplify each student’s effort in accomplishing class and individual goals and objectives. Daily
grades include but are not limited to:

● Weekly performance grade: This grade is earned by daily participation of the TEKS (Texas Essential
Knowledge and Skills) for Music. The grade is not determined by inherent music ability, but rather by
the effort put forth in class to become a better musician. Students may increase their chances of
mastering the TEKS outcomes by adhering to the SMS Choir guidelines, such as being prepared, on
time, participating, and following all Choir Rules. These are skills that will be observed every day by
both directors.

Classroom Assignments and Quizzes: 10% of each Six Weeks Grade

Students will be routinely quizzed on sight-reading skills and for on various repertoire rehearsed in class.
Quizzes are to check for comprehension and to encourage closer study of music and sight-reading materials.
Students may also be given brief written assignments or quizzes to enhance individual comprehension and
mastery.

Major Test Grades: 30% of each Six Weeks Grade

All co-curricular activities (see description on previous page) are major grades: They are the culmination of
many hours of class rehearsals. Major Test Grades Includes:

● Written Tests
● Sight-Reading Tests
● Singing Tests
● Performance critiques and individual evaluation of Rehearsals and Concerts: Students must attend
rehearsals and concerts in order to fill out evaluations to the best of their abilities. The performance
setting cannot realistically be recreated for a single student, so attendance at concerts is strongly
encouraged. The director reserves the right to deny participation in a performance to any student
who does not meet discipline, eligibility, reward point system, or performance attire guidelines.

REHEARSAL PARTICIPATION / EVALUATION = 1 TEST GRADE

CONCERT PARTICIPATION / EVALUATION = 2 TEST GRADES
All students are given the opportunity for success, but it is up to the student to be responsible and
take ownership in their grade.
 CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SMS CHOIR
CLASSROOM GUIDELINES:

1. Be in your assigned seat with pencil, binder, and any handouts when the bell rings. Many instructions
and procedure are covered at the beginning of class. The better prepared everyone is as a class, the
more we can accomplish as a group.
2. Raise your hand and wait for permission to speak. Social talking and blurting out are distractions that
prevent learning.
3. Follow teacher directions the first time they are given and participate at all times. Listening to
instructions the first time saves time.
4. Stay in your assigned seat unless you have permission to leave it.
5. Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.
6. Be courteous, polite, respectful, and supportive of fellow choir members. Positive attitudes yield
success.

BATHROOM​: Choir is a team activity and the presence of every choir member counts! Students will be given
3 bathroom tickets per semester. If they do not use them by the end of the semester, they will be awarded 500
reward points toward our “Point System”. They must hold up their ticket at an appropriate time during class
and wait to be acknowledged in order to be allowed to leave the room. They must present their ticket to one of
the choir directors. Lost tickets are non-replacable. Bathroom and water passes are considered the same.
These passes do not rollover to the next semester. If they run out of tickets or lose them, they can go to the
restroom if they serve a 5 minute lunch detention.

CONSEQUENCES/DISCIPLINE POLICY​: Each day is a new day, and with each new day comes the
opportunity for a fresh start. The first time a student chooses to break a rule on any given day, they will receive
a verbal “warning” dependent upon the offense. Each time a rule is broken, the student will also sign a
“Student Reflection Sheet”. If the student continues to display disruptive behaviors (they could break the same
rule twice or two different rules), that student will then go to one of the following steps:

1st Offense​ - Verbal Warning

2nd Offense​ - Discipline Signing Reflection, weekly grade lowered
3rd Offense​ -Discipline Signing Reflection and Parent Contacted (by e-mail or phone), weekly grade lowered
4th Offense​ - Office Referral to Admin

Extreme offenses will result in an immediate office referral (inappropriate language, violence, extreme
insubordination, etc.)

Examples of rule violations: Tardy, Talking, Folder, Pencil, Gum, Out of Seat without permission, Not
Participating (talking, horseplay, talking back, being disrespectful, etc).
 CHOIR SUPPLIES
ALL CHOIRS WILL NEED:

● 1/2 INCH BLACK VIEW BINDER​ (6th Grade Choir Members Only)
● 2-3 PENCILS WITH ERASER​ (Mechanical pencils are HIGHLY ENCOURAGED and must be kept in
Choir Binders)
● 2 Black Pens
● 3 Ring​ Pencil Bag with Zipper
● ​ harpener (housed in pencil bag)
Small S
● Highlighters ​(yellow, orange, pink, blue, green, purple)
● Headphones (​ for Chromebook activities)
● 1 Box of Kleenex (optional)

CHOIR T-SHIRT (MONEY DUE TBD)

Each student in choir is required to have their own Stripling Choir Shirt for the whole school year. The cost of
the shirt will be (TBD) per student. The choir shirt is mandatory and will be used for concerts, traveling events,
and Friday spirit gear. This year, students will have the option to purchase all apparel and “swag”, but they
must first purchase their mandatory choir shirt before purchasing other choir gear. Show Choir members will
have one additional shirt to purchase.

NOTE​: Please do not hesitate to make the directors aware if you need any financial assistance with any and
all choir fees by reaching out to the directors. Scholarships are often available. A handwritten note, e-mail, or
phone call from a parent/guardian will serve as an application.

PAYMENT​: We accept cash or money orders for ALL items. Please NO checks! When your students are
submitting payments, please make sure that we have the following on an envelope: Students Name, Class,
Period in Choir, Amount, and What the payment is for.

In addition to this, money is sometimes collected via Stripling Choir’s Website: ​striplingchoir.weebly.com

ADDITIONAL CHOIR COSTS

Throughout the school year, there may be additional costs for extra choir events, festivals, parties,
registration fees, contest applications, accompanists, choreographer, videographer, music, food for
events, busses, decorations for concerts/banquet, end of the year awards, clinicians, musical
rights/props/costumes, and show choir props. Scholarships are often available on a case by case
basis. However, fundraising will always be an option to help offset costs. Parents are encouraged to
attend PTA meetings for further information on what we plan to spend money on this year in choir.
 PERFORMANCE ATTIRE
In the Fort Worth ISD Music Department, skill development is the primary goal for Middle School students and
we take pride in how we present ourselves. Directors reserves the right to deny participation in a performance
to any student who does not meet the performance attire guidelines listed below.

WHAT TO WEAR FOR FUTURE EVENTS/CONCERTS:

FIELD TRIPS OR FALL/SPRING CONCERTS:​ Stripling Choir T-Shirt and Jeans/Pants. Shirt should be
tucked into pants, NO shorts. A belt is recommended. NO big earrings, athletic headbands, light-up shoes, or
anything that might be a distraction from the choir.

WINTER CONCERT:​ For the winter concert, we would like to encourage the students to wear their “UGLY
HOLIDAY SWEATER” and jeans. Students may also wear solid red/green/blue sweaters or their Stripling Choir
T-Shirt

FORMAL WEAR, WINTER CONCERT, UIL, SHOW CHOIR:

● GIRLS​: All beginning choirs will wear black, elbow-sleeved tunics with black leggings, black closed
toed flats (no heels), no other accessories unless they are stud earrings. Choirs attending U.I.L will
wear formal, black concert dresses that are provided. However, they will need black hose (not
leggings), and black closed toed ballet flats (NO heels). For Show Choir, uniforms are still “to be
decided”.

● BOYS​: Wear black slacks, black button-up long dress shirt (yellow ties are provided), black socks,
black dress shoes (no tennis shoes).

● Additional “props” or “costumes” may be allowed at the director’s discretion. Parents will receive
specific information in advance.

EXAMPLES OF ALL ATTIRE WILL BE DISCUSSED AT THE CHOIR INFO NIGHT

(see calendar)
 CHOIR CALENDAR INFORMATION
The choir calendar is intended as an aid for your schedule and for that of your student. Please
understand that if certain dates change, your student will still be required to participate in all
designated rehearsals, contests (where his/her ensemble are competing), and performances.

The Choir Director reserves the right to call after school or before school rehearsals as deemed fit,
particularly in regard to preparation for concerts and contests. Advance notice will be given of any
rehearsals outside of class time. Should scheduling conflict with rehearsals/concerts, proper
documentation and at least 24 hours notice must be given to both directors.

Any changes in the calendar will be sent home with ample time for you to arrange transportation.
Please see the “Grading” and “Attendance” Policy sections of this handbook for the policies on
scheduling issues.

NOTE​: Please mark your calendars in advance and make arrangements for your students to be
picked up/transported on these dates. There are many other students in choir, and rides can be
arranged with other choir parents, if advance notice is given. Performing is the purpose of this class;
therefore, students who cannot commit to these performances are limiting their experience and
hindering the team.

AFTER SCHOOL EVENTS & PICK-UP POLICY​: Parents are expected to pick up their student on
time after every choir event. Students who are continually picked up late (more than 15 minutes) will
not be allowed to participate in future choir activities.

1ST TIME LATE PICKING UP​: Warning

2ND TIME LATE PICKING UP:​ Phone Call to Parent
3RD TIME LATE PICKING UP:​ Student will not be allowed to do any further after school Choir Events
 STRIPLING CHOIR CALENDAR 2019-2020
Please note which dates are required and that dates are subject to change with advance notice
given by Mrs. Flores or Mr. K. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to
contact the choir directors to clarify.

*Choir TBD (To Be Determined)​: As it gets closer, Mrs. Flores and Mr. K will announce in
ample time which choirs or sections need to be at these rehearsals.

AUGUST
8/23 Choir Council Leadership Workshop 4:30-9, Arlington Heights High School
8/29 Choir Parent Information Meeting, SMS Auditorium, 6:30pm

SEPTEMBER
9/4 Choir Council Meeting, 4:30-5:30, SMS Choir Room
9/7 Saturday Sight-Reading Bootcamp, 9am-1pm, (BOYS CHOIRS ONLY), SMS Choir Room
9/12 Stripling Open House, 6:00pm
9/13 National Anthem @ Handley Field, 6:00-7:30pm, (VARSITY CHOIRS ONLY)
9/16 Musical Auditions Begin
*​Musical Rehearsals Begin 4:30-6:00 (Mon, Tues, & Thurs. until Musical Performance)
9/20 Choir Fees due, amount TBD
9/27 Choir Kickoff Party/Ice Cream Social, 4:30-5:30pm, SMS Courtyard
9/30 Tentative Fundraiser Kick Off

OCTOBER
10/2 Choir Council Meeting, 4:30-5:30, SMS Choir Room
10/9 Academic Pep Rally, Stripling Auditorium, 3:30pm
10/9 Region Choir Rehearsal, SMS Choir Room, 4:30-5:30
10/9 Fall Concert Rehearsal, 4:30-6:30pm ALL CHOIRS (REQUIRED)
10/10 Fall Concert, 6pm ALL CHOIRS (REQUIRED), Stripling MS Auditorium
10/25 Fall Choir Party, 4:30-6:30pm, Stripling MS

NOVEMBER
11/2 Saturday Show Choir Rehearsal, 10:00-4:00pm, (Show Choir Only)
11/6 Choir Council Meeting, 4:30-5:30, SMS Choir Room
11/9 Saturday Musical Rehearsal, Time TBD
11/13 Ft Worth ISD Solo & Ensemble Contest, 12:00pm-6pm, Riverside MS
11/14-16 Stripling Middle School Musical
11/15 SMS Spotlight Fundraiser, SMS
11/20 Region Choir Rehearsal, SMS Choir Room, 4:30-5:30
DECEMBER
12/4 Region Rehearsal,SMS Choir Room, 4:30-5:30pm
12/9 Choir Council Meeting 4:30-5:30, SMS Choir Room
12/11 Winter Concert Rehearsal, 4:30-6:30pm, (REQUIRED)
12/12 Winter Concert, SMS Auditorium, 6:30 (REQUIRED)
12/13 Holiday Choir Party, 4:30-6:30pm, Stripling MS
12/16 Show Choir Tour/ Cook Children’s , 10am-6pm, Elementary Feeders
12/17 Winter Voice Recital (Students in Lessons), 6:30pm, SMS Auditorium
12/20 Fine Arts Concert at Stripling, 3:00pm, SMS Auditorium (performances from Choir, Theater,
Band, Orchestra and more!)

JANUARY
1/8 Choir Council Meeting, SMS Choir Room 4:30-5:30
1/9 Region Rehearsal, SMS Choir Room 4:30-5:30
1/13 Spring Fundraiser Kick-Off
1/15 Academic Pep Assembly, SMS Auditorium, 3:00pm
1/16 Region Cuts Party, SMS Choir Room, 4:30-7:00 (required for Varsity Choirs)
1/21 Region Rehearsal, SMS Choir Room 4:30-5:30
1/22 Ft Worth ISD Honor Choir Auditions 1:30pm (required for Varsity Choirs)
1/23 Region Rehearsal, 4:30-5:30pm
1/24 Region Auditions, 4-9 @Young JH (required for Varsity Choirs)
1/25 Region Auditions, 8am @ Young JH (required for Varsity Choirs)
1/28 Boys Night Out, 4:30-7:00pm, at Stripling MS (Need 5 Chaperones)
1/29 Girls Night Out, 4:30-7:00pm, at Stripling MS (Need 10 chaperones)

FEBRUARY
2/1 Met Opera Simulcast, Porgy & Bess, Ridgmar Movie Theater, 12:00-5:00pm
2/4 Show Choir Rehearsal, SMS Auditorium, 4:30pm-6:00pm
2/5 Choir Officer Meeting, SMS Choir Room, 4:30pm-5:30pm
2/6 Show Choir Preview Concert, 4:30-6:00pm (REQUIRED FOR SHOW CHOIR)
2/7 ​FWISD Show Choir Competition, Southwest High School, 10:00am-7:00pm
2/8 ​All Region Clinic and Concert, 8:00am-6:00pm
2/18 Show Choir Rehearsal, 4:30-6:00pm
2/20 Show Choir Rehearsal, 4:30-6:00pm
2/21 ​Mansfield Show Choir Competition, Mansfield Performing Arts Center, 10:00am-9:00pm
2/27-28 Pre-UIL at Benbrook MS/HS (REQUIRED for select choirs)​ ​- Need 4 Chaperones each day
2/29 UIL AHHS Pyramid Decompress Day, TBD (UIL Competing Choirs)
MARCH
3/3-4 6th Grade Benchmarks, TBA (REQUIRED) - Need 4 Chaperones each day
3/5 Choir Council Meeting, SMS Choir Room
3/6 PTA Spring Dance, Stripling Middle School, TBA
3/16 UIL Rehearsal, 4:30-6:00pm, Choir TBD (REQUIRED)
3/17 UIL Concert for Parents, SMS Auditorium, 6:00pm (REQUIRED for Competing Choirs)
3/19 UIL Rehearsal, SMS Choir Room, 4:30-6:00pm, Choir TBD (required)
3/20 UIL Rehearsal, SMS Choir Room, 4:30-6:00pm, Choir TBD (required)
3/24-25 Non- Varsity UIL Competition at Martin HS (REQUIRED) - Need 3 Chaperones
3/26-27 Varsity UIL Groups at IM Terrell (REQUIRED) - Need 4 Chaperones each day

APRIL
4/1 Choir Council Meeting,SMS Choir Room 4:30-5:30
4/2 6th Grade FWISD Honor Choir Auditions (​ Need 8 Chaperones)
4/14 Talent Show Auditions, SMS Auditorium, 4:30pm-6:30pm
4/20 Talent Show Dress Rehearsal, SMS Auditorium, 4:30pm-6:30pm
4/21 Talent Show, SMS Auditorium, 6:00pm
4/23 6th/7th/8th Grade FWISD Honor Choir, 1:30-7:00pm (REQUIRED FOR STUDENTS WHO
MAKE THE CHOIR)
4/29 Spring Concert Rehearsal, SMS Choir Room, 4:30-6:30pm, ALL CHOIRS (REQUIRED)

MAY
5/1 Spring Concert, SMS Auditorium, 6:30pm (REQUIRED)
5/16 End of Year Choir Reward Party, Location TBD
5/18 Choir Council Meeting, SMS Choir Room, 4:30-5:30
5/19 Spring Voice Recital, SMS Auditorium, 6pm
5/20 Last Choir Council Meeting, 4:30-6:00pm
5/21 Choir Banquet, SMS Cafeteria/Auditorium, 6:00-9:00pm
 CONCERT MAKE-UP ASSIGNMENT: EXAMPLE
You are receiving this assignment due to missing a mandatory performance.
Excused absences can be made up for a 100 and unexcused absences can be made up for a 70.
Please follow the directions below.

DIRECTIONS
- Choose one of the assignment options listed below
- The report should be typed in 12-point font, double spaced, with 1-inch margins.
- The report should at least 3 pages in length.
- You should include and cite at least two references (cannot be wikipedia). Plagiarism will result in a 0.
- Turn in a hard copy and email your word document to either choir directors.
- Please use proper grammar and spelling.
- Complete and turn in the assignment by _________(ask Directors for date).

ASSIGNMENT OPTIONS
1. Write a report on Broadway musicals. Include the history of musicals, major composers, major productions, styles, and
staging differences. Talk about your favorite musicals and why.

2. Write a report on a popular singer or band. Talk about how they got their start in music and discuss one of their songs
in detail. Talk about the meaning of the song but also about the musical details: rhythm, accompaniment, dynamics,
tempo, voicing, etc.

3. Watch a movie musical such as West Side Story, Hairspray, The Sound of Music, Phantom of the Opera, Guys and
Dolls, etc. Then, write an informative essay on the show. Be sure to include information about the characters,
performers, composer, set, lighting, costumes, plot, and music. Evaluate the quality of the singing and music.

4. Choose a famous composer and write an essay about their life, contributions to music, and important compositions.
Feel free to ask Mrs. Flores for suggestions, or write about a composer of one of the songs we are learning in class.

5. Write a report about the importance of vocal health. Describe the vocal mechanism and explain how to remain in good
vocal health. Discuss the “Do’s” and “Don’t’s” of singing and taking care of your voice.

6. Choose a career in music (examples include: music producer, sound engineer, professional singer, etc) to research
and write a report about necessary skills for this job, training, employment possibilities, job location, salary, and job
responsibilities.

7. Write a report about the history of a cappella music, and how it has impacted music today.

8. Write a report about the history and use of solfege in choirs.

REHEARSAL MAKE-UP ASSIGNMENT: EXAMPLE

REHEARSAL MAKEUP ASSIGNMENT:

DUE BY ( / / )
If it was an excused absence, you get to
make it up for a 100, if it was an
unexcused absence, you get to make it
up for a 70.

GO TO THIS LINK. YOU WILL NEED

HEADPHONES!

goo.gl/kRtTpF
If students do not have internet at home, I will give
them Choir Class time to makeup this assignment.
 What if…..?
The following are likely choir scenarios and how to deal with them:
1) “… I lost my music.” OR “I forgot my music at home.”
● Students are responsible for ALL of their music and their music binder. These are required materials
for every rehearsal.
● In the event that a student loses their music, they will need to ask the class librarian for an extra copy
and will result in loss of participation points for that week.
● A new ½ inch view black binder must be provided if lost.
● Students who fail to pick up music BEFORE REHEARSAL STARTS will face discipline/grading
consequences.
● Students who are not bringing their music to class will incur grade penalties.

2) “… I don’t have a pencil.”

● A pencil (or 2-3) should be kept in the choir binder at all times.
● In the event that a pencil is missing from the binder, the student can trade a shoe or their phone for a
pencil from Mrs. Flores.
● It is not appropriate to get up in the middle of rehearsal to sharpen a pencil. Please take care of this
BEFORE REHEARSAL STARTS.
● Classroom sharpener is off limits.
● Pens, markers, sharpies, etc are not appropriate for marking music.
● Students who fail to pick up a pencil BEFORE REHEARSAL STARTS will face discipline/grading
consequences.
● Students who are not bringing a pencil to class will incur grade penalties.

3) “… I have to go to the bathroom/I need a drink of water!”

● Students are expected to use the restroom and get water from the water fountain during passing
periods, or in the choir room before the bell rings.
● Rehearsal time is not restroom or drink time.
● Once you are in the room, you are in the room.
● You are also allowed to use one of your 3 semester bathroom passes if you have one left.

4) “… I have to go to the nurse.”

● If a student becomes seriously ill during rehearsal, they should raise their hand and wait for the director
to address them.

5) “… I was absent last class.”

● You are responsible for checking with your section leaders and updating any markings that were made
in your absence.
● Do not ask the director, “What did I miss last class?” Your section leaders will have that information.
6) “… I didn’t get the new music from yesterday.”
● If you were absent and you know that new music was handed out, you must ask your class librarian for
copies.
● Do not come to the directors and ask about new music. If you have questions about which piece you
need to pick up, ask your class librarian.

7) “… my cell phone goes off in class.”

● Cell phones and other electronic devices are not permitted during choir class unless directed by the
director & her lesson plans. Cell phones are not permitted on the risers for any reason.
● If Mrs. Flores or Mr. K finds you using your phone without permission, it will go into Choir Phone Jail
and you will not be allowed to get it back until the end of the school day. If you argue with either
director about relinquishing your phone, Mrs. Flores and/or Mr. K reserve the right to send your phone
to the office and you will have to pay $15.00 to get it back per school policy.

8) “… I’m sick and I can’t sing today.”

● If you are ill and can still sing (just not at full voice), you must let the director know BEFORE rehearsal
starts that you will be “marking” that day.
● If you are so ill that you cannot sing at all, you must let the director know BEFORE rehearsal starts.
Failure to let the director know BEFORE rehearsal will result in disciplinary and grade consequences.
● You will still participate in all of the rehearsal in your assigned seat, and you will be responsible for all
of the music markings made that day.
● Students who are too sick to sing for more than 2 consecutive rehearsals will be required to provide a
signed parent note or doctor’s note stating the reason for not singing. Failure to provide this note will
result in the student sitting outside of the rehearsal area and copying lines.
● NOTE: These strict policies are to alleviate students who routinely take advantage of being sick and
use it as a catalyst not to participate. If your child is severely sick and will really not be able to sing for
several days, please send a note or an email to the directors.

9) “… I need a tissue.”
● During rehearsal, students must give the Tissue Hand Sign and wait for a director to give permission
for you to get out of your seat. The student must also ask at appropriate times.

10) “…I need some hand sanitizer.”

● During rehearsal, it is not appropriate to leave the rehearsal area to get hand sanitizer.
● Feel free to utilize your own personal hand sanitizer during your passing period or before class starts.

11) “… I love to play the piano!”

 ● The piano is off-limits to ​all students​, except when section leaders and/or student directors are given
direct permission from the director.
● The piano is an instrument, not a table for drinks, papers, etc.
● Do not move the piano unless given direct permission from the director.
● NOTE: All of these rules also apply to the keyboards in the practice rooms.

12) “…I love choir SOOO much, I want to be here all of the time!”
● When a director is not in the room, (before school, after school, lunch time) the choir room is strictly
off limits. If you come into the choir room and a director is not there, please leave and wait outside of
the room for them to return.
● The director’s desk/office is strictly off limits if they are not there.

13) “…I love so-and-so and I want to write our names on the board ​together​ inside a little heart!”
● Use of the following items requires director approval: dry-erase markers and board.

14) “…I enjoy ultimate destruction!”

Please refrain from the following:
● Jumping on the risers
● Touching or playing the piano
● Crawling on the floor to get to your seat
● Taking a nap on the risers
● “Parkouring” on the risers

15) “…my hair is gross/my legs are ashy/but I just got out of PE!”
Personal grooming at your seat is unacceptable. This includes:
● Brushing your hair
● Spraying deodorizer, colognes, perfumes, or hairspray
● Applying scented lotions
● Grooming other people’s hair
● Applying cosmetics

16) “I lost my…”

● Anything found in the choir room at the end of the day is gathered up and put into the “Lost & Found
Box”.
● Students are responsible for checking this box to see if their missing items are there.
● The choir leadership team will go through this box at the end of every month to empty and clean it.
Items may be thrown away or those that are in good condition may be donated.
● Each choir director will not be held responsible for items left by students in the choir rooms.

STRIPLING CHOIR REWARD POINT SYSTEM

The point system is used as a reward tool for the students who have worked hard all year in
choir. Students must earn at least 5000 points to be eligible to attend the “point party” at the
end of the year at Alley Cats. The top two students with the most points will be awarded a top
prize such as a Laptop, Bluetooth Speaker, Music Technology, etc at our Choir Banquet at the
end of the year. Music technology prizes can only be awarded once during their Stripling Choir
experience. Trophies will be awarded to the top 4 students with the most points. These top
students will be given their awards at the Choir Banquet at the end of the year. Students who do
not participate in both fundraisers and/or both donations will not be eligible for the top prize.
Students who earn at least 5000 points will also be recognized in our Spring Concert Program.

Ways to earn points:

1. Have all materials

2. Always be on time (remember…To be early is to be on time. To be on time is to be
late!!)
3. Helping out around the choir room
4. Showing up to extra rehearsals and concerts
5. Passing classes WORK HARD AND PASS!!!!!
6. Participating in both fundraisers
7. Good comments from other teachers around school.
8. Never being in ISS or OCI
9. Volunteering to sight read in front of the class (Leadership always equals extra
points)
10. Going that extra mile to be a good human, random acts of kindness
11. Auditioning for Solo Contest, All-Region, Solos for Concerts
12. Getting a medal for your solo at Solo Contest, Making All-Region Choir
13. Having a parent/guardian chaperone for our events
14. Participating Daily
15. Signing up for Bass Hall Summer Choir Camp
16. Going to Choir Parties
 Ways to lose points:
1. Not having all supplies (Remember: If you need it and you don’t have it with you, you are not prepared
for class.)
2. Not Participating in class
3. The class as a whole is not participating (Every week is 25 points each for the class, but each offense
will be minus 5 points)
4. Showing Disrespect towards a teacher or fellow students
5. Being tardy to class. (100 points per tardy)
6. Having gum in choir. (200 points each caught with gum)
7. Getting out of seat without permission
6. Not showing up for extra rehearsals or concerts (rehearsals -200, concerts -500)
7. Being caught with your phone in class or at rehearsals/concerts
8. Not passing your classes- 100 points taken away PER CLASS each 6-weeks
9. Getting into trouble outside of choir in your other classes. (Remember if you get in trouble with another
teacher and get pulled out of choir class for suspension or in-house, you miss out on learning your music
and will get behind.)
10. Getting in ISS/OCI
11. Not turning things in on time (Homework or forms sent home)

MORE EXAMPLES OF WAYS TO EARN POINTS:

*Fundraiser (Reaching your goal of 55 items or
a donation of $50.00 max) + 700 points per
fundraiser
(one/two fundraisers per year) + 50 points per
item sold
*Top Seller in each class + 200 points extra
*Top Seller Over-all +800 points extra
*Rehearsals outside of school + 200 points per
rehearsal
*All Concerts + 500 points per concert
*Turning all forms in on time (Contract/Medical
forms/permission slips) + 100 points
*Parent coming to the choir parent meeting
+ 200 points
*Parent chaperones (every parent that
chaperones earns points) + 150 points per
parent/per event
*Parent turning in email address + 100 points
*Going to Choir Parties + 50 points each party
*Go to another school’s Choir Concert + 100
points each concert with signed program
*Getting a 100 in choir for a 6 weeks + 150
points
*Passing all classes every 6 weeks + 200 points
per six weeks
*A Honor Roll +300 points
*AB Honor Roll + 200 points
*UIL/Being Eligible & Performing + 400
*Auditioning for Region/Honor Choir + 500
*Making Region Choir + 1000 points
*Belts + 50 points each
*Solo Contest Gold Medal + 400 points
*Solo Contest Silver Medal + 300 points
*Solo Contest Bronze Medal + 200 points
*Signing up for Bass Hall Summer Choir Camp
+ 300
*Bringing Supplies for the choir hall + points
vary
*Occasionally, the choir director will give out
extra points for extra work!!! The number of
points given or taken will be left up to the
director

Students! If you pass all of your classes and show up to all rehearsals and concerts and
do what you are suppose to do, you will earn all your points for the year!!!
 OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH
The following are extra musical opportunities for your student. They are not mandatory, and
participation or lack thereof will not reflect your child’s grade in any way, but rather enhance
their choral experience.

Student Leadership
Student Leadership is an integral part of any choral program. The Stripling Choir Officers have
established a tradition of excellence and are very active in promoting the choir program,
assisting the director, and serving the surrounding community. The Stripling Choir Officers are
chosen at the end of every school year and announced at our Choir Banquet. Officers must
also remain eligible throughout the year with grades no lower than a 70, audition for all contests,
be present at all choir events unless excused, and maintain positive behavior and strong work
ethic.

TMEA All-Region Choir

This experience is unforgettable and rewarding, but a definite challenge. 7th and 8th grade
middle school students from all over the region compete for placement into this honor choir by
preparing difficult music for a panel of judges. Students who place into this choir give a concert
under renowned clinicians in February (see calendar). The music is advanced and challenging,
and students who are interested are strongly encouraged to take private voice lessons and are
required to attend the concert if they make the choir.

Students in Varsity Choir/s are required to audition for All-Region and HIGHLY
ENCOURAGED to take private voice lessons. Varsity Choir/s are also required to attend
scheduled region rehearsals. If you miss the rehearsal, you must submit a recording to
Mrs. Flores and Mr. K within 7 days of the missed rehearsal.

UIL Solo & Ensemble

At this event, students are expected to prepare a solo for a judge who will rate their
performance based on memorization and execution of musicianship. Students who receive a
high rating at this competition receive a medal. Auditions will be held at Riverside Middle
School, time is TBA. Busses will be provided.
 THE CHOIR PTA Program
The Choir PTA is a vital part of our music program. Throughout the school year, PTA will be
managing certain budget items. This year, the budget will be finalized by the PTA on August
28th. We as a department will make sure to communicate all information from this meeting once
it has been approved. Fees will vary depending upon the ensemble for which a student is
involved in. Examples of what the choir fee may cover include: music, choir t-shirt, uniform
cleaning, food for events, etc.

FUNDRAISING
We will offer multiple fundraising activities for students to raise money for the choir. Choir PTA
will also offer activities to help defer the cost of choir trips, uniform fees, and much more. We
currently are in desperate need of funds and need as much support as possible this year as we
now have 300 choir students in our program. In addition to this, we will also host spirit nights at
some of your favorite local restaurants in Fort Worth throughout the year! Dates TBA.

PRIVATE VOICE LESSONS

All students are strongly encouraged to take private voice lessons. Young musicians simply
cannot receive the individual help in a group or class that they can in a one-on-one situation. A
student taking private lessons may double his/her progress in a year’s time. Consequently,
most of the outstanding choir programs in Texas are based on a strong private lesson program.
We hope lots of students will invest in their individual growth and take lessons. Most lessons
will be taught during the student’s choir class at school. Lessons are $17.00 per lesson and it is
up to their private lesson teacher how they would like them to pay. Please make sure you are at
the Choir Parent Meeting to meet our amazing voice lesson teacher and to receive more
information.

Students in voice lessons are required to audition for Solo Contest and
All-Region/Honor Choir Competitions.
 Volunteer Information

For your child’s safety, FWISD requires that all volunteers fill out and submit a volunteer
background form and be on the approved volunteer list before you may help. Please apply
online at ​volunteer.fwisd.org​ if you plan to help in ​any way​ during the year. Please do this as
soon as you can, as it can take a few days to process at the beginning of the year. Follow the
instructions on the application page. Completion of this application implies consent for Fort
Worth ISD to obtain a criminal history record in accordance with its policies.

We cannot do anything without chaperones. Volunteer applications must be renewed each

year. If you were a volunteer last year, you must renew your application to assist during the
2019-2020 school year. Thank you for your cooperation with this very important matter.

FOR EVERY EVENT WE DO WE NEED 1 CHAPERONE PER 10 STUDENTS

SMS Choir Citizenship Guidelines

Students involved in extracurricular activities are held to a higher standard of conduct.

Participation in extracurricular activities is a privilege not a right. As part of the FWISD Choir
Department, we expect our choir members to represent themselves in a positive way throughout
the school building and community. The choices they make reflect upon themselves, our choir
program, our campus and our school district. Particularly important are the ways in which they
choose to behave at after-school and off-campus activities. We place as much importance on
conduct as we do on numerical grades and have high expectations of each student in class.
Students involved in major disciplinary infractions will be removed temporarily or permanently
from extra curricular activities. Disciplinary action may affect participation for the next season.
It is also at the Choir Director’s discretion if a student should participate in choir concerts and
rehearsals dependent upon citizenship.
 SOCIAL MEDIA AND PUBLIC ETIQUETTE
POLICY FOR CHOIR STUDENTS
Stripling Middle School Choir Students,

As you begin participation in another school year, we want to make sure you are aware of social networking
guidelines. The Stripling Middle School Choir Program recognizes and support the students’ rights to freedom
of speech, expression, and association, including the use of social networks. In this context, however, each
student must remember that performing and competing in Fort Worth ISD is a privilege. As a student, you
represent the school district and you are expected to portray yourself, your team, your school, your choir, and
the school district in a positive manner at all times.

Below are the social networking guidelines, which provide the following direction for social networking site
usage:

Everything you post is public information - any text or photo placed online is completely out of your control the
moment it is placed online – even if you limit access to your site. Information (including pictures, videos, and
comments) may be accessible even after you remove it. Once you post a photo or comment on a social
networking site, that photo or comment becomes the property of the site and may be searchable even after you
remove it.

What you post may affect your future! Many employers, college admissions officers, and athletic recruiters
review social networking sites as part of their overall evaluation of an applicant. Carefully consider how you
want people to perceive you before you give them a chance to misinterpret your information (including pictures,
videos, comments and posters).

Similar to comments made in person, the Stripling Choir program will not tolerate disrespectful or inappropriate
comments and behavior online, such as: Derogatory language or remarks that may harm choir members or
directors; other Choir students, teachers or coaches, or representatives of other schools, including comments
that may be disrespectful to opposing choirs/teams/schools.

Social media outlets will be used as a communication device. They will also be used to encourage involvement
with family, friends, fans, colleges and recruiting outlets In short, understand that freedom of speech is not
unlimited. The online social network sites are NOT a place where you can say and do whatever you want
without repercussions. The information you post on a social networking site is considered public information.
Think about whom you represent: yourself, your family, your choir, your teammates and coaches, and your
school. Like it or not, people are going to associate everything you post with you and what you represent.
Protect yourself by maintaining a self-image of which you can be proud of for years to come.
 SOCIAL MEDIA RESOURCES
INSTAGRAM​: Stripling_Choir

FACEBOOK GROUP​: Stripling Middle School Choir

EMAIL​: ​amanda.flores@fwisd.org

EMAIL​: ​garrett.kheshtinejad@fwisd.org

SOUNDCLOUD​: Stripling Choir

REMIND 101
Remind is one of our primary means of communication throughout the year. It is crucial
that both the parent and student sign up for this free service to receive communication
via text message during the year.

ALL CHOIRS: Text @smschr2020 to 81010

6th Treble: Text @sms6treb to 81010
6th Tenor/Bass: Text @sms6tenbass to 81010
Sub-JV Treble: Text @smssubjv to 81010
JV Treble: Text @smsjvtreb to 81010
Varsity Treble: Text @smsvartreb to 81010
Varsity Boys: Text @smsvartb to 81010
Show Choir: Text @smsshowcho to 81010
Choir Council: Text @smschrco20 to 81010
 Thank you for taking the time to
review the 2019-2020 Stripling Choir
Handbook. Please do not hesitate to
contact Mrs. Flores or Mr. K with
any questions you may have.

Please don’t forget to fill out the

google form and sign your Handbook
Acknowledgement Form.