October 23, 2026 - For Band Director Darryl Moore, the email that informed him of his band's invitation to the Sugar Bowl Parade felt like an affirmation of the ensemble's hard work.

"It means a lot. It's an awesome opportunity to be selected among a bunch of great bands that are in Jacksonville."

The same sentiment was echoed by Jakobe Smith, a senior and drum major in the Andrew Jackson High School Band.

"We put in hard work all year, and it just shows what dedication, determination, and discipline looks like."

It's an achievement that also has personal significance for Band Director Moore.

"A lot of my family graduated from Andrew Jackson. Going to another state, another stage representing music is something that's in my family's DNA."

It also marks a momentous occasion for the school - founded in 1927 - which will soon celebrate its centennial anniversary.

For the band director as well as the students, it's also an honor that elevates expectations.

"Practice is more intense," adds Annastasia Nichols, drum major, "we're going outside of Florida and we want to show them what band looks like down here for us."

Team Duval News had a chance to attend an afterschool rehearsal and capture the band's excitement. Take a look at the video below: