Gateway Community Charters - Gateway Stunners Drumline

Gateway Stunners Drumline

The Gateway Stunners Drumline is an exciting, organization-wide music program open to all 7th-12th grade students across Gateway Community Charter Schools. Founded in 2024, our drumline is all about building confidence, teamwork, and Gateway spirit! Students will develop their musical skills while performing at school and community events, all in a fun and supportive environment.

Our drumline is led by Mr. Ezavion Conner, a talented musician with years of experience. He began drumming in 7th grade with the Grant High School Drumline under the guidance of Mr. James Van Buren, a key figure in the Sacramento drumline scene. Since then, Mr. Conner has performed with the Sacramento Kings Drumline, Sac State Drumline, and traveled the world showcasing his drumming talents. His passion for music and teaching will inspire every student to find their rhythm and grow as a performer. Read Mr. Conner's Bio.

Interested in joining the drumline?

Before signing up, please review the Drumline Student Expectations to understand the commitment and requirements. To join for the 2025-2026 school year, complete the Drumline Interest Form. Once submitted, our drumline support staff will contact the parent or guardian to discuss the next steps.

Want to invite the drumline to perform at your school or community event?

Complete the drumline performance request form

NOTE: Submitting a request does not guarantee performance. Our drumline support staff will review your request and contact you once it is confirmed.

Contact Information

Julia Jimenez - Drumline Support Staff	Pavlo Rubtsov - Drumline Support Staff
Email: Julia.Jimenez@gcccharters.org	Email: Pavlo.Rubtsov@gcccharters.org
Office: (916) 286-5129 x21902	Office: (916) 964-2872 x38505
Work Cell: (916) 903-2103

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can join the drumline?

The Gateway Cadets Drumline is open to 7th-12th grade students from any Gateway Community Charter School. No prior drumming experience is required—just a passion for drumming and a willingness to learn!

2. Is there an audition process?

No, there are no auditions. All skill levels are welcome!

3. What is the commitment level for students in the drumline?

Students are expected to attend all scheduled practices and performances. Regular attendance is crucial for learning and team coordination. If a student has a scheduling conflict, they should communicate with the drumline instructor in advance. If they must miss a session, a parent or guardian should notify the drumline support staff as soon as possible. Excessive absences may impact participation in the program.

4. When and where are practices held?

Practices are held on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM at Community Outreach Academy Middle School (3800 Bolivar Ave, North Highlands, CA 95660). Students should arrive no earlier than 3:45 PM and must be picked up by 5:45 PM.

5. What happens if my child misses a practice?

Students are expected to attend every practice. If they must miss a session, a parent or guardian should notify the drumline support staff as soon as possible. Excessive absences may impact participation in the program.

6. Will the drumline perform at events?

Yes! The Gateway Cadets Drumline will perform at various school and district events throughout the year. Additional opportunities may be available for community performances as well.

7. How do parents stay informed about drumline events and updates?

Important updates, schedules, and event details will be shared via email and ParentSquare. Please ensure your contact information is up to date.

8. Will students need to practice outside of scheduled rehearsals?

Yes! While formal practices are held twice a week, students are encouraged to practice at home using their drumsticks and practice pad to improve their skills.

9. Do students need to buy their own equipment?

No, all equipment is provided by the district. Drums will remain at the school, but each student will receive a pair of drumsticks and a practice pad to take home for practice. These must be brought to every rehearsal.

10. What if my child loses or damages their drumsticks or practice pad?

The district provides each student with a set of drumsticks and a practice pad. If lost or damaged, replacements may be available, but students are expected to take care of their equipment.

11. How is transportation handled?

Families are responsible for arranging transportation to and from practices. If transportation is a challenge, Gateway Community Charter Schools partners with HopSkipDrive, a safe and reliable student transportation service, to assist families in need. If you require transportation assistance, please contact Julia Jimenez at julia.jimenez@gcccharters.org or 916-903-2103 to discuss possible eligibility.

12. How do parents stay informed about drumline events and updates?

Important updates, schedules, and event details will be shared via email and ParentSquare. Please ensure your contact information is up to date.

13. How do students sign up?

Interested students must review the Drumline Student Expectations and complete the Drumline Interest Form for the 2025-2026 school year. After submitting the form, the drumline support staff will contact parents/guardians to discuss next steps.