It is with a humble mind and spirit that I would like to inform you of a monumental accomplishment for the Dillon High School Band Program. The students have overcome many obstacles this school year in the never ending pursuit of excellence. As a result of their commitment to excellence through persistence and perseverance, the Dillon High Band Program will be a 2015-2016 recipient of the South Carolina Band Director's Association's Outstanding Performance Award (OPA). This is the highest award presented to a band program by the association.

The OPA award was established to encourage band programs to offer a well-rounded instrumental music education to the students of South Carolina. Band programs must participate in the Marching Championships, Region and All-State Band, Concert Assessment, and Solo and Ensemble Festival in order to be eligible. The band program is awarded points for each event and must obtain a minimum of 90 points out of 100 to earn the award. Below are our point totals.

Marching Championships - 27 points out of 30

Region and All State Band - 20 points out of 20

Concert Assessment - 30 points out of 30

Solo and Ensemble - 20 points out of 20

Total points earned - 97 out of 100

This is the first time in recorded history that the Dillon High School Band Program is the recipient of this award. Please congratulate our fine students when you have the chance. It is refreshing to be a part of such a great staff here at Dillon High, that understands how the pursuit of excellence relative to Attitude, Academics, Athletics, and the Arts help provide a holistic education for the students we serve.

I would also like to note that the Dillon Middle School Band Program will be receiving this award for the second year in a row.