By Leo LaFlamme, BEAT reporter
BRUNSWICK, OH- Have you ever wanted to help the Brunswick Middle and High School bands? If so, the Brunswick Band Parent Organization (BBPO) is the place for you. Kelly Worsencroft, BBPO President, is in charge of what the BBPO does to support our Brunswick band program and the community.
The BBPO is a group of parents or guardians that support the band. It was started in 1983 as the Brunswick Instrumental Musical Boosters, and in the 2000s the current name was given. The BBPO helps the bands by fundraising and supporting the band by attending events. The money from the fundraisers goes directly to the school by helping them buy music, paying for registration fees, and paying for instrument repairs. Worsencroft said, “Over 90% of the funds go back to the bands 6-12.” They also give out two scholarships each year for students who are continuing their music education.
Worsencroft has been a member of the BBPO since 2019, starting as a helper, then eventually becoming president. The BBPO has many different ways of raising money, such as the concession stands at the high school stadium for any event that needs them. They also help with the Sound Spectacular every October, which has 15 bands from across Northern Ohio compete. The Brunswick High School Marching Band is currently doing a show called “Fate,” which Worsencroft said, “features some really great music.” Worsencroft stated that the best time to see the marching band would be at a competition.
If you would like to volunteer for any of the BBPO events, go to bbpo.org and click on the volunteer tab. The BBPO meetings are on the first Wednesday of every month at 7 pm in the high school band room.
Leo LaFlamme, Brunswick Middle School, is one of over fifty student “backpack journalists” (grades 6-12) in the award-winning BEAT Video Program. The program, celebrating its 25th year, is sponsored by Donut Land, Plum Creek Assisted Living Community, MODA Gifts, Scripps Howard Foundation and the Brunswick Rotary Club. Go to https://www.bcsoh.org/community/new-beat-site to learn more about the Program, or visit https://thebeat.viebit.com/?folder=ALL to view videos produced by the students.
PHOTOS: BBPO members work the concession stands to help raise funds; BBPO scholarship and promotional graphics.