To Dr Booker, Dr Bostic and GCS school board members:

We are petitioning for the safe return to play for our Band students. The county has provided guidelines and support for the safe return of extracurricular sports activities, but has given absolutely no opportunity or guidance in the safe return for band, which is a graded class, not an extracurricular activity. This is a blatant double standard. Right now our band classes aren’t allowed to play their instruments under any circumstances, even in small groups, socially distanced, outdoors, using playing masks and instrument covers. Many organizations, both national and state, have provided guidelines for the safe return to play for our band students. These include the NC Bandmasters Association and The National Federation of State High School Association Music Committee, among many others. Our band students deserve the same opportunities that are being extended to our sports students. Bring back the music!