January 6, 2020


Dear 6th Grade Band Parents and Students,

I would like to welcome you and your child to the Walter R. Sundling Junior High School Band Program.  Band is one of the most exciting and rewarding educational opportunities offered by our school.  The goal of the WRS Band Program is to provide our students with the highest quality musical experience.  Recent statistics indicate that students who participate in music are among the academically strongest in their schools.  In addition to musical experience, band students also learn the importance of group cooperation, teamwork, self-discipline, self-esteem, perseverance and leadership.

Incoming 7th grade students currently enrolled in 6th Grade Intermediate Band can participate in our 7th Grade Concert Band and Jazz Band.  Currently, there are over 135 students enrolled in the WRS Band Program.

On Thursday, January 30, I will be hosting a WRS Band Orientation Session for all Gray M. Sanborn, Marion Jordan and Winston Campus 6th Grade Band students.  The band orientation will be held at Walter R. Sundling Junior High School (1100 N. Smith Street, Palatine) from 8:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.  Both elementary schools have been notified about the late arrival of 6th grade band students on this day.

Please make transportation arrangements to drop off your child no later than 8:00 a.m. at the WRS South Entrance (Bus Circle).  Your child will be escorted to the Theater by WRS Band students.  

During our band orientation, 6th Grade Band students will rehearse with our 8th Grade Symphonic Band and will be given an overview of our Band Program.  Students will also have an opportunity to watch our 7th Grade Concert Band and Jazz Band perform.  The orientation session will conclude at 9:45 a.m. and students will be bused back to their elementary schools.  Your child should bring his/her instrument and band music (The Avengers) to the orientation. (Percussion students only need to bring their sticks/mallets and band music.  Snare drums/mallet instruments will be provided for this event.)

Please complete and submit the form below to me no later than Friday, January 17.

I look forward to meeting your child at our band orientation.  Please continue to support and encourage your child’s musical interests.  

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me.


Sincerely,



Jeff Zilke
Director of Bands