The Manning High School band recently showcased its talents on a national stage with a memorable trip to Washington, D.C. The band, led by director Jordan Jefferson, participated in several prestigious events, including the National Memorial Day Concert on the lawn of the Capitol.
“This was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the great things happening in our school and district,” Jefferson said. “Our students wowed the crowds of Washington, D.C., and represented Manning with excellence!”
During their visit, students toured significant landmarks such as the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, the National Air and Space Museum, Ford’s Theater, the Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, and Arlington National Cemetery.
Jefferson extended his gratitude to all sponsors and patrons, emphasizing that their support made the trip possible. “Special thanks to the Clarendon County School District for your support and encouragement. The students were ecstatic as they marched through the streets of Washington, D.C.,” he added.
Since taking over the band program in 2017, Jefferson has revitalized the group, which now includes the Monarch Jazz Connection Band and the Symphonic Band, both of which have received superior ratings in performance assessments. His leadership has created opportunities for students across Clarendon County, including those from schools without music programs.
The community’s support was instrumental in the band’s success. Fundraising events included the Mr. and Mrs. Golden Pride children’s pageant and the Manning High School Gym Battle, which helped ensure all students could participate in the trip, regardless of financial constraints.
Under Jefferson’s guidance, the Manning High School band is marching toward excellence, making a name for itself on both a local and national level.
