By Emilie St. John
Contribuitng Writer
COMPTON — The Compton Unified School District has announced that one of its high school bands has been selected to participate in the Hollywood Christmas Parade Nov. 26.
This is the first time a Compton school has participated in the 91-year history of the parade, according to the district.
“I am excited to witness the Compton High School band take center stage at the Hollywood Christmas Parade,” said Compton school board member Micah Ali. “This is a moment of pride for the Compton Unified School District that highlights our commitment to arts education.
“The rhythmic drum beats echoing down Hollywood Boulevard embody the transformative impact of music on our CUSD scholars. Our investment in the arts is not just about creating musicians; it is about cultivating disciplined minds, fostering creativity and unlocking the full potential of every student.
“The correlation between arts education and academic achievement is undeniable. As we celebrate this festive parade, let it serve as a powerful reminder that when we invest in the arts in schools and district, we invest in the future success of our CUSD scholars.”
The award-winning Compton High School Marching Band has received a number of accolades, including being featured on an episode of the HBO Emmy-winning series “Ballers.” Now the band takes on a new prestigious role of being the first from Compton to march in the Hollywood Christmas Parade.
“I’m thrilled about this great opportunity for the Compton Unified School District and our talented Compton High School Marching Band,” school board member Satra Zurita said. “The Hollywood Christmas Parade will be viewed by thousands in person and millions around the world.
“This invitation is a reflection of the hard work and effort that our students have accomplished. As a Compton High School alumni cheerleader, I’m so proud of our scholars and their teachers who pour their heart and soul into providing instruction, guidance, and support that will enhance our students’ education and broaden their horizons for a lifetime.”
The 50-piece Compton High School Marching Band and its attached units of tall flags and dance team will take part in the parade that begins at 6 p.m. at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Orange Drive.
Compton Mayor Emma Sharif, who served on the Compton school board from 2001 to 2015, is pleased that the city is being represented by Compton students.
“This is truly a momentous occasion for our community,” Sharif said. “Having our very own Compton High School Marching Band represented on such a grand stage is an accomplishment we can all take pride in.
“As they march through the streets of Hollywood, they carry not only their instruments but also the pride and spirit of Compton. It’s a testament to the talent that resides in our community and we are extremely proud of them for achieving this wonderful opportunity.”
The live parade features nearly 5,000 participants, with numerous Hollywood celebrities, multiple pre-parade and parade performers, award-winning bands from around the country, several larger-than-life four-story character balloons, colorful floats and many movie cars. The parade culminates with the appearance of Santa Claus and his reindeer, as they usher in the holiday season!
Since 1928, the Hollywood Christmas Parade has been a cherished annual holiday tradition enjoyed by Angelenos, as well as by millions watching the televised airings of the parade nationally on TV and internationally on Armed Forces Network around the world.
Emilie St. John is a freelance journalist covering the areas of Carson, Compton, Inglewood and Willowbrook. Send tips to her at emiliesaintjohn@gmail.com.
