GRESHAM, Ore. -- Parents and students at Centennial High School are fighting to save the marching band.

The school district wants to drop marching band and color guard in order to refocus the program on teaching music.

Supporters packed an emotional meeting on Tuesday night to convince district officials of the importance that marching band plays in school.

“These kids are so dedicated and so passionate about what they do,” said Mark Huff, a member of the band parents association.

If the resolution passes, the only marching for Centennial High’s band would come during next year’s Grand Floral Rose Parade.

Centennial’s marching band and color guard won first place in their division during this year’s parade.