The Band of Excellence

The Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office (JPSO) hosted a contingent of Latin-American delegates participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program. The goal of the group is to tour various American cities to examine primary prevention programs such as family support, after school activities, truancy and dropout prevention programs that help prevent juvenile delinquency and gang involvement.

We are very proud of our BOE Program and are excited that we are getting "international" recognition for the good work being done. Congratulations to the band members and the directors and best wishes to the International group as they travel on to other cities.

This article, appeared in Jefferson Life Magazine in the March - April 2011 issue, focuses on the Band of Excellence and how it is making an impact on the lives of at-risk youth in the community.

“It is another example of how the Sheriff’s Office is developing positive programs and experiences for the area’s at-risk youth. Students from the ages of 13-19 are eligible to participate in the band. According to director Hezikiah Brinson, most of the members belong to their schools’ bands, but it is not a requirement for the Band of Excellence.”

“Music is the soul of Louisiana and nowhere is that more true than in the New Orleans area. It has the power to inspire, to evoke memories, to teach and to heal. Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand is harnessing the power of music to do those things and more with the JPSO Band of Excellence.

The band, under the guidance of director Hezikiah Brinson and assistant director John Summers is in its infancy stages with approximately 30 members, but plans are to grow to 200 strong. Jefferson Parish youth between the ages of 13-19 are eligible to apply to the band.”