As our programs become more and more "Drum Corps-esque", so does the need to hire specialists to develop the individual sections of our bands and I will admit that prior to becoming a certified Music Educator, I worked for many years as a contracted instructor and am sure I will utilize contracted services as well because there are many skilled people willing to put in the long hours for very little pay because they are dedicated to the art. However, over time, I have worked for directors who had been "burned" by instructors who have taken money and never showed up. Instructors who charged them for work they never did. or even worse, instructors who had to be fired for inappropriate behavior, ie. relationships with students etc. So I though that this forum would be a great opportunity to encourage my fellow educators to check out "who is working with their children"
I have always provided a Resume with not only references from prior directors with whom I had worked for, but character references as well. This is a given but do you check these references or did you hire them over the phone b/c they talk a good game? It wouldn't hurt too to check out their resume....if they say "I have drum corps experience." Have them provide some proof. There once was a guy who said he was a drill writer and had studied with the top show designers at the time, but nobody heard of him. When he was called out, he stated "I studied the videos of the top Corps". Reputable instructors will be affiliated with professional organizations such as PAS, Vic Firth Education Team. Or have worked with reputable programs. Audition them to ensure they have the skill set to teach the level of your students. Another good idea would be to have them come in and teach a lesson while you observe. just as, not all teachers are players, not all players are teachers. check with your district HR and your principal.
Some districts require Volunteers to be fingerprinted. Remember the saying "You Don't know what you don't know>>>>>> I Urge you to protect you students and even you career and check out who you are about to hire.
