COVID-19 Statement
The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Marching Band Association’s Executive Board has been carefully monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic over the past few months, and in particular how it is affecting decisions around athletics, school districts and ultimately the marching arts activity within our communities.
PIMBA exists to promote participation in the marching band field events while providing education through competition. While it is not our right to dictate what programs are or are not allowed to do at specific school districts, the Executive Board feels strongly that we have a responsibility to provide guidance and leadership when it comes to the activity within the association.
After monitoring the pandemic for several months in hopes that the situation in Pennsylvania would improve, we have determined that, at this time, schools cannot safely host any of our regularly scheduled events this season. This decision was not easy, nor has it been for the countless other competitive circuits in our region and across the nation. Instead, our process was a positive one, in hopes of providing hope for the students, families and programs of our region. It is also important to note that this decision was voted on by the entire PIMBA membership and was passed unanimously by all directors in attendance.
PIMBA is currently working on alternative performance opportunities for it’s member programs to take advantage of as we continue to monitor the progress of the COVID-19 pandemic. We are hoping that many marching bands can continue to function safely within the guidelines of their district school system.
We will find strength in our communities and the PIMBA Executive Board is thankful for the continued support and positivity shown by our directors, staff members, students and fans. During a time when it is quick to criticize, blame and react negatively, we are grateful for the love and compassion that our communities continue to show towards each other.
Sincerely,
The PIMBA Executive Board
PIMBA exists to promote participation in the marching band field events while providing education through competition. While it is not our right to dictate what programs are or are not allowed to do at specific school districts, the Executive Board feels strongly that we have a responsibility to provide guidance and leadership when it comes to the activity within the association.
After monitoring the pandemic for several months in hopes that the situation in Pennsylvania would improve, we have determined that, at this time, schools cannot safely host any of our regularly scheduled events this season. This decision was not easy, nor has it been for the countless other competitive circuits in our region and across the nation. Instead, our process was a positive one, in hopes of providing hope for the students, families and programs of our region. It is also important to note that this decision was voted on by the entire PIMBA membership and was passed unanimously by all directors in attendance.
PIMBA is currently working on alternative performance opportunities for it’s member programs to take advantage of as we continue to monitor the progress of the COVID-19 pandemic. We are hoping that many marching bands can continue to function safely within the guidelines of their district school system.
We will find strength in our communities and the PIMBA Executive Board is thankful for the continued support and positivity shown by our directors, staff members, students and fans. During a time when it is quick to criticize, blame and react negatively, we are grateful for the love and compassion that our communities continue to show towards each other.
Sincerely,
The PIMBA Executive Board
