I think the movement to Area every year, and now State every year only exacerbates that situation. Our program does just fine, we will never get to state for many reasons: but mainly our community does not care about this competitive culture. They want a big band every friday night and for their kids to be in as many activities as possible. That's perfectly fine, but now we do this trip to area every year where we know we will be near the bottom. Its a huge waste of funds.
I know there have been "famous" HBDs on here in past who say "well no one is forcing you to go. Why should WE be punished?"
I am good at selling kids on most anything. But it's really hard to say "great job, but we're gonna pass on area." So we are kind of forced into it. And honestly, we dont need 38 bands, to find the top 6. It's a money maker for UIL and its frustrating.