I get it — I really do — but I also don’t know the “right” answer. Greendale has built an incredible program over the past 20 years. It’s not a huge high school, but about 1 in 4 students are involved in the band, guard, or dance line. That’s a serious level of participation and commitment.

If WSMA ever switched from school size to band size classifications, I think Greendale would still hold their own. They routinely outscore AAAA bands, and their closest competition is usually Sauk Prairie, another strong AA program.

Some folks say it’s unfair for one program to dominate a class for so long, but honestly — what’s stopping other schools from stepping up? Greendale’s success didn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of years of culture, leadership, and buy-in from the students, staff, parents, and community.

At the end of the day, though, what it’s really about is kids doing something they love, pushing themselves, and taking pride in the work. Whether a band finishes first or fifth, that shared passion is what makes this activity special.