Story provided by Stillwater Public Schools

The Stillwater Eighth Grade Band received straight superior ratings during the North Texas Festival of Distinction in North Richland Hills on April 28. 

In its 26th year, the festival brought more than 100 sixth through eighth grade bands together to compete from April 26-29. Stillwater was the only band from Oklahoma participating in the competition. 

“We were thrilled to have been given the opportunity to compete in this festival,” says Director Megan Perkins. “The 8th Grade Band not only represented Stillwater, but Oklahoma, very well!” 

Perkins and staff members, including Stillwater Junior High School Assistant Principal, Dr. Kane Mach, joined twenty parents in chaperoning the entire eighth grade band on the trip.

“Our SJHS 8th grade band being the only school in Oklahoma invited to this prestigious band competition speaks to the amazing efforts, dedication, and hard work of our fabulous students and band staff, led by Mrs. Perkins,” says Dr. Mach. “This also would not have been possible without the help and support of our incredible band parents. It was an honor and a privilege to attend the trip and I am already excited about the possibility of chaperoning next year!” 

The band has already been invited back to participate in 2024, and Perkins says she’s excited to return. “It was an awesome trip. The kids were really great.”