My policy was to award letter jackets for the entire band when qualifying for UIL SMC (this policy was approved by admin.) Once they earned the jacket and we qualified again, it was an additional letter. We awarded patches for C/SR, division 1 solos/ensembles, and patches for UIL SSE.

We did use a point system in addition to the above and if students were in band for all four years but fell short of their points, they were awarded their jackets in the spring of their senior year. I can't remember all the details but it all seemed very equitable and aligned with district and community expectations. I don't remember very much push back from anyone. I'm also glad I don't deal with this any more.