Covington Fine Arts Academy Guitar Handbook (Due August 25th)

Covington Orchestra Handbook 2025-2026
(Due August 29th)
Jeffrey Hall, Head Director
Orchestra Hall (C-2)

www.CMSstrings.org

Covington Fine Arts Academy
3700 Convict Hill Rd.
Austin, TX 78749

(512) 414-3276 Orchestra Classroom
Phone (Extention 59801)

jeffrey.hall@austinisd.org (checked more frequently)

INTRODUCTION: This handbook is for parents and students. Since your children will be members of a competitive and performing organization, certain rules and regulations must be followed to ensure the quality of the Covington Fine Arts Academy Strings Program. Please READ the handbook carefully and COMPLETE THE FORMS where indicated below. Completing the forms and turning them in to the director is part of your child’s grade. Keep the information portion of the handbook for future reference.
E-mail (parent/guardian completing this form)*
example@example.com
Student AISD # (No S)*
NUMBERS ONLY PLEASE!!!
Name of student*

First NameLast Name
Which orchestra class is student in?*
Name of parent/guardian completing this form*

First NameLast Name
Please select correct size t-shirt for your student (please note these are ADULT sizes)*

Calendar
Please visit our website for an updated calendar:
www.CMSstrings.org/calendar
Due to the nature of performing ensembles, each rehearsal and performance relies on each student being present, please view the calendar and list any conflicts you may have over the next year (till August 13, 2026)
List each item on it's own line. Thanks!
Student AND Parent/Guardian have read, understand, and agree to the Calendar of Events above (select Yes below).*

Instrument / Classroom Supplies / Uniform

Please review the required materials list below. All students will need an instrument to practice their music at home.

Orchestra materials list can also be found here:

Orchestra Supply List

Uniform Requirements

Please e-mail jeffrey.hall@austinisd.org or on remind for any questions relating to instruments or class materials. It is crucial that you include Mr. Hall in the decision of which instrument to buy; it is his job to help you find a quality instrument. If you are unable to rent an instrument, please complete the following school usage form:
https://forms.gle/X84sJawKjU3vbcVdA
6th grade String Bass Application

String Bass is a very challenging and rewarding instrument to learn and play. It is also a very important instrument in the orchestra and requires a special type of commitment. Additionally, being a bass player offers many opportunities in the future (including large college scholarships).

To apply for a spot as a 6th grade bass player, complete this form by 8/22/25:

String Bass Application
ORCHESTRA CLASS AMAZON WISHLIST

We appreciate your support :)
Student AND Parent/Guardian have read, understand, and agree to the Instrument and Classroom Supplies information above (select Yes below).*

Other Important Information

Please review the class expectations & policies below:

Orchestra Classes/Levels

Absences/Tardies Policy

Classroom Expectations

Discipline Procedures

Tutoring & Parent Meetings - Accessing Orchestra room

Concert Etiquette

Grading Procedures

Orchestra Trip Guidelines

Social Media/Online Expectations

What are Region Orchestra Auditions? (does not apply to beginners)
See all the amazing things our string students do!

Click Here for CMS Strings Facebook Page

Click here for CMS Strings YouTube Channel
Student AND Parent/Guardian have reviewed the important information in this page, and have used the links to review the information on our website. *

Communication

ALL PARENTS/STUDENTS MUST HAVE AT LEAST 1 REMIND ACCOUNT AND CUTTIME ACCOUNT!

Please complete this by 8/29/25

What is Remind, and How do I sign up for it?

What is CutTime, and How do I access it?
Parent/Guardian has read, understands, and agrees to the communication information above. Parent agrees to sign up for Remind and CutTime by 8/29/25 (required)*

Students will not be allowed go anywhere with the orchestra program if this form is not filled out & signed.

AISD ORCHESTRA FIELD TRIP & EMERGENCY/MEDICAL FORM

I have read and understand the Orchestra Handbook and agree to the stated requirements. I also give permission for my child to travel with the strings progam for all competitions, local events, and strings recreational trips during the school year. While my child is in attendance at these events, I understand that my child will follow all district, school, and strings policies. I understand that my child will be dealt with accordingly in the event that he/she should not comply with these policies. Failure to follow these policies will result in removal from the event/trip and possible loss of the privilege to attend future events/trips. Should my child be in need of medical attention during one of these events/trips, Mr. Hall and agents of AISD are authorized to seek proper medical attention for my child.
Orchestra Trip Guidelines

(review before signing below)
Parent/Guardian Signature for AISD Orchestra Agreement & Trip/Medical Form:*

Clear
Date of Parent/Guardian Signature for AISD Orchestra Agreement & Trip/Medical Form*

MonthDayYear
Date
PLEASE PROVIDE AS MUCH INFORMATION AS POSSIBLE.

VERY IMPORTANT!

You will need to update Charms with this information
Parent/Guardian 1 - select an option below*
Parent/Guardian 1 Name*

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian 1 Cell Phone Number
Parent/Guardian 1 Home Phone Number*
Parent/Guardian 1 Work Phone Number
Parent/Guardian 1 Email
example@example.com
Parent/Guardian 2 - select an option below
Parent/Guardian 2 Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian 2 Cell Phone Number
Parent/Guardian 2 Home Phone Number
Parent/Guardian 2 Work Phone Number
Parent/Guardian 2 Email
example@example.com
Contact 3 - select an option below
Contact 3 Name

First NameLast Name
Contact 3 Phone Number
Contact 3 Email
example@example.com
Additional Contacts/Information (names, phone numbers, email addresses)
Student's Cell Phone Number (in case of emergencies or other extenuating circumenstances)
Person to Contact in an Emergency:

First NameLast Name
Emergency Contact Phone Number
Insurance Company
Insurance Policy #
Insurance Company Phone Number
Any allergies of student:
Special instructions:

AUSTIN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION PERMIT
Parent/Guardian Signature for Private Transportation Permit:*

Clear
Date of Parent/Guardian Signature for Private Transportation Permit*

MonthDayYear
Date

AUSTIN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

Talent Release

This form gives permission to use pictures of the orchestra/guitar students. Without this, we cannot use any group pictures that contain your student's image.
I hereby certify that I am the parent and/or guardian of student (named above), a child under the age of eighteen years. I hereby consent that any videotape, photographs, or classroom work that have been, or are about to be made by AISD, may be used by AISD for the purpose set forth in the original release hereinabove.*

Clear
Name of Parent/Guardian signature for Talent Release*

First NameLast Name
Date of Parent/Guardian signature for Talent Release*

MonthDayYear
Date

Covington FAA Orchestra

Student Contract

STUDENT AGREES THAT:

As a Covington FAA Orchestra member, I will act in accordance with the academic and behavior expectations stated below. These expectations have been set in place for my classroom success as well as the success of others in orchestra.

I will come to class prepared every day. Therefore, I will bring the following daily:
- Myself: I cannot learn if I am not at school.
- My instrument: I need to practice every day! I cannot succeed if I fall behind.
- My complete folder with music, book(s), pencil, and paper: I cannot achieve if I do not have all of the materials I need
I will make a commitment of excellence by:
- Being a member of the orchestra, and all year-long classes, for the entire school year (SCHOOL POLICY).
  - When a classmate quits a performing ensemble, it can have a serious impact on the classroom climate; being able to trust and rely on each other is so important to have successful experiences.
  - In some rare cases, a course change can be made. This would, first, require a parent-teacher meeting to explore any possible solutions before submitting a schedule change request.
- Achieving academic excellence in all courses by maintaining a minimum of 80% grade point average
- Committing to be at school daily to learn (98% - 100% attendance)
- Demonstrating a willingness to learn, lead, and positively motivate others. I must be an example for others to follow.
- Maintaining good behavior at school. It is important to note that vaping and using drugs are strictly prohibited. Any involvement with these substances will result in your removal from the orchestra program.
School Class-time Attendance Policy:

We kindly ask that parents schedule vacations and appointments in alignment with the conflict sheet submitted for the upcoming school year. Unplanned absences, even if excused, significantly impact the learning process and impact the overall quality of our orchestra. Each class includes new musical details and ensemble techniques athat cannot be learned through individual practice. These are essential skills that shape the success of our award-winning orchestra program.

When students miss class, we must pause to reteach critical material, which delays progress for the entire class. While private lessons can provide some support, they cannot replace the specific and evolving instruction given during rehearsals.

I will follow the Rehearsal/Performance Absence and Tardy Procedures (also mentioned previously in handbook):
- Students (and parents) must notify the director about possible tardies or absences in ADVANCE (see absence/tardy section of handbook).
- Excessive absences (3rd instance) will result in loss of privilege to attend special performances off-campus, field trips, and other orchestra-related activities.
- Three (3) unexcused tardies will be treated as One (1) unexcused absence.
- Any absences/tardies that are not communicated by a parent within 24 hours after the absence/tardy, will not be excused.
STUDENT AGREES TO THE STUDENT CONTRACT:*
Student Signature for Student Contract*

Clear
PARENT/GUARDIAN AGREES TO THE STUDENT CONTRACT:*
Parent/Guardian Signature for Student Contract*

Clear
Date of Parent/Guardian Signature for Student Contract*

MonthDayYear
Date

Fees / Costs/ Payments

Fees are due 8/29
Orchestra Fairshare Fee & T-Shirt:

All Covington music students are required to pay a yearly $50.00 fair share fee, which also includes a CMS String T-Shirt

Instrument Fee:

Any student that does not purchase their own instrument will be charged an "instrument fee" of $60.00 per school year. This allows students to take home a “school-owned” instrument every day. Please note we have a limited amount of "loaner" instruments. Students are encouraged to purchase their own instrument for home practice.
Honor & Pops Orchestra Students will perform often ane be required to own a:

- CMS Jacket ($60)

From any String Shop:

- Clip-on Tuner (for all performances)

- Extra set of strings (at least the 2nd most inexpensive option at a string shop)

- Metronome (phone app is fine)
What does the "fair share" fee cover?

How do I pay my class fees?

What does the "instrument fee" cover?

What if I'm unable to pay class fees?

What if I need to use cash or check for orchestra payments?
Merchandise & Parent Booster Club Membership:

T-shirts, merch, and membership fees may be purchased on the CMS Strings website -www.CMSstrings.org/payments (Paypal & Venmo @CovingtonStrings).

Booster club payments can also be made with cash or check (payable to “CSBO”) and placed in the Booster Lock Box (orchestra room)or given to any booster club officer.

PAYMENTS MUST ALWAYS INCLUDE A STUDENT NAME & WHAT IT'S FOR.

You must ask for a receipt for any money brought to Mr. Hall, in case you are asked to pay something you have already paid for.
Student AND Parent/Guardian have read, understand, and agree to the Fees / Costs / Payments section above. Parent agrees to pay fees by 8/29/25 (Required).*
PRIVATE LESSONS

(STRONGLY RECOMMENDED for ALL students, especially advanced orchestra/guitar students!)

Private music instructors are usually very good about finding a time/date when they can meet with your child. If your child is going to be in 7/8th grade in orchestra or guitar next year (especially if they are in our advanced performing ensembles), it is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED that they are in private lessons.

If your child is a beginner, private lessons can help them excel in the class and often result in them earning a spot in the Honor Orchestra/Advanced Guitar class.

Private Lesson Teacher List & Info

Link to scholarship application (due 9/2 by 5:00 p.m.):
Lesson Scholarship Form
Select "Yes" if you are interested in scheduling private lessons with one of our instructors. Lessons are usually $40.00 for 30 minutes ($60 for an hour) and paid directly to the lesson teacher. Prices may vary. To view full list of instructors, visit CMSStrings.org/private-lessons
Select "Yes" if you need more information about private lessons.
Should be Empty:

Covington FAA Middle School OrchestraParent/Guardian Volunteer Form

PRIVATE LESSONS

Covington FAA Middle School Orchestra
Parent/Guardian Volunteer Form