Fans angry at football team entering field during band performance; school officials issue statement
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IDAHO FALLS — Facebook posts showing high school football players running onto the field during Friday night’s marching band halftime performance have drawn angry comments.
The following statement was issued on Saturday afteroon from Karla LaOrange, superintendent of the Idaho Falls School District:
“Last night, during halftime of the Idaho Falls High School football game, an incident occurred when the football team entered the field earlier than scheduled while the marching band was still performing. As a result, the team’s entrance overlapped with the conclusion of the band’s show, causing disruption to the performance and potential damage to some equipment.
“Idaho Falls High School and District 91 regret this disruption and are taking the matter seriously. Both the football program and the marching band are integral to our school community, and we value the talent, dedication, and pride that our students bring to their activities.
Head football coach Joseph Parker issued the following statement:
“As the head coach of the Idaho Falls Football Program, I want to sincerely apologize for the disruption that occurred during the conclusion of the marching band’s halftime performance at last night’s game. The football team entered the field earlier than scheduled, and this unfortunately overlapped with the band’s closing moments. I regret that this interrupted their performance and took away from the hard work and dedication they put into preparing for the show.
“It has been brought to my attention that there may have been damage done to some flags during this incident. I apologize for any damage caused, and I want to make it clear that the Idaho Falls Football Program will replace any material damaged during this unfortunate event.
“Both our band and football team are vital parts of our school community. I greatly respect the time, energy, and pride our students invest in representing our school and I take full responsibility for ensuring better communication and coordination moving forward.
“Thank you for your understanding and continued support of all our student programs.
Principal Dallan Parker of Idaho Falls High School also emphasized that this incident “does not reflect the values or expectations of the school:
“This is not who we are at Idaho Falls High School. Our students, staff, and community take great pride in all our programs. We are implementing new protocols to ensure this does not happen again. Both the band and football team are essential, and we are committed to creating an environment where every student feels supported and respected.
“Idaho Falls High School administration is conducting a full review of the incident and will address any findings from the investigation. School administration will work closely with both the band and football program to strengthen coordination going forward.
“Idaho Falls High School and District 91 remain committed to ensuring a positive and respectful environment where all students can thrive.”