WS Chronicle

Photo by Tevin Stinson

Members of the Carver High School Marching Band, school administrators, and other supporters of the music department stand with State Farm agent Kristen Martin who presented the band with a $2,500 check for winning third place finish in the “Get Your High School To a Better State,” contest.

By Tevin Stinson

The Chronicle

The Carver High School Marching Band has been named a third-place winner in the “Get Your High School to a Better State” contest.

Sponsored by State Farm and the Steve Harvey Morning Show, the national contest is designed to provide funds for high schools who are in need.

To enter the contest, an essay of 200 words or less had to be submitted explaining how the nominated school would use the grand prize of $10,000. Longtime supporter Gilda Smith submitted the essay for Carver.

Smith said after hearing about the contest on the radio, she decided to give it a shot. In her essay, Smith said the band would use the funds to increase student participation and buy new field show equipment such as flags, streamers, hoops and banners.

Although they were not able to bring home the grand prize, on Tuesday, Feb. 23, local State Farm agent Christine Martine presented the marching band a check for $2,500.

Band director Juan Eckard said he was overjoyed when he got the news. Eckard mentioned the donation will go a long way in making the band bigger and stronger.

“Our numbers have been getting thin in recent years, but I am confident that we will continue to grow stronger and represent the school and this community in a positive way.”