Some North Texas high school bands are taking a knee this football season.
In order to save teacher jobs, the Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District decided to give up going to away games to save money.
Fine Arts Director Jim McDaniel said the district faced a significant budget shortfall this year. When department heads were asked how the district could save money, he said the answer was painful, but necessary.
"I brought up to my boss about not going to away football games," he said.
McDaniel said it can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $6,000 for marching bands to attend one away game.
"They have to get so many buses. If it carries 50 kids, you've got 225 kids...," he said. "You're talking about six to seven buses and with equipment in on top of that."
McDaniel said cutting the trips saves the district close to $50,000.
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"That versus losing a teacher was our decision," he said.
Beverly Phillips said her two sons in the Newman-Smith band are "a little sad" about the move.
"It's hard, but when there's not money, then you have to make cuts somewhere," said Beverly Phillips, who has two sons in the Newman-Smith band.
Her son, Max, who is a freshman, said he has been looking forward to the season but understands the cuts.
"You go to do what you got to do sometimes," he said. "I'm kind of bummed out but, yeah, I understand."
McDaniel said it is possible the bands would be able to go to away games if their team makes the playoffs.
