Hi there. I'm looking for lots of input, if possible, on this topic. As we have turned the corner and are entering the home stretch of the school year, one of the revisions I'd like to look into is my band program's leadership audition process. Over the years I've noticed a lot of really talented students who would naturally serve as a positive role model tend to shy away from wanting to apply for a leadership position, while sometimes the less than stellar role models arrogantly have the confidence to try to earn a leadership title...

I'd like to see the strong kids take more of an initiative in trying to go for these leadership roles. I recently started thinking about trying to implement a "points" system in order for students to be eligible to apply for leadership... This would be similar to the points system many districts use for students to be able to earn a letter jacket. The difference would be, the points would be necessary just to apply to be a leader, not necessarily to earn a leadership title.

So for instance, points would be awarded for items such as band placement, region/area/all-state honors, attendance at sectionals, etc.

Do any band programs already use a similar points system that allows students to even apply for a leadership role? I'm wondering if the application criteria would improve student accountablity throughout the year.

If not -- what has been your secret to success in ensuring the strongest candidates are seeking a student leadership role?