I am very happy to see other people giving attention to "concert band" in the fall. I am the only one on our staff who thinks it is not only important, but beneficial.
I have the 3rd and 4th band: many of these students get a tiny bit of an inflated ego because they've "got it down" on music that has been drilled for months. But then I pull out some very simple pieces to read through and they quickly realize where they are at. It's a good thing for them to realize there is still work to be done on their playing.
My colleagues are always hesitant because MARCHING BAND! But we are not a "competitive" school and we always play it a little safe.
It makes them so much better. Just like everything else we do - consistently dedicate time to things that are important and your students will grow.