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After two decades of silence, Cody High School in Detroit has brought its marching band back to life — and with it, a renewed sense of pride and purpose for the entire community. Thanks to a $439,000 grant, the school was able to rebuild its music program, giving students access to tutoring, meals, and music lessons. For many, it’s their first time playing an instrument — but through long rehearsals, sore muscles, and determination, they’ve found discipline, belonging, and confidence. Leading the revival is Band Director Damian Lyles, a Detroit native who returned home after years of teaching out of state to restore the city’s proud marching band tradition. “When marching bands were huge in the city, I want to see that glory come back to Detroit.” — Damian Lyles Watch how Cody’s students are reclaiming Detroit’s rhythm and rebuilding a legacy, one note at a time. Support Their Journey: Help send Cody’s Marching Band to perform on a national stage. Donate here: https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/detroit-public-schools-foundation/cody-high-school-band-trip
Fox 2 | The Comeback Beat: Cody High School Marching Band Returns After 20 Years
After 20 years of silence, the halls of Cody High School are alive again with the rhythm of drums and brass. Under the leadership of Band Director Damian Lyles, a Detroit native determined to restore the city’s proud marching band tradition, students are rediscovering the power of music — and themselves. Many of these young musicians are picking up instruments for the first time, finding confidence, teamwork, and pride through every rehearsal and performance. Their debut halftime show wasn’t just a comeback — it was a declaration that Detroit’s musical legacy still marches on. “When marching bands were huge in the city, I want to see that glory come back to Detroit.” — Damian Lyles 🎺 Watch the full story of how Cody’s students are turning silence into a new sound of hope and pride. 💛 Support Their Journey: Help send Cody’s Marching Band to perform on a national stage. Donate here: https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/detroit-public-schools-foundation/cody-high-school-band-trip #Detroit #CodyHighSchool #MarchingBand #MusicEducation #DPSCD #DetroitPride #SupportTheBand #StudentSuccess
WXYZ | From Silence to Sound: The Rebirth of Cody High School’s Marching Band
After two decades of silence, Cody High School’s Marching Band is back — reigniting Detroit’s proud musical tradition. Led by Band Director Damian Lyles, who returned home to rebuild the program, this revival was made possible by a $439,000 grant supporting music education across the city. For many students, it’s their first time playing an instrument — but they’re finding confidence, community, and pride through the power of music. 🎺 Watch how Detroit’s next generation is bringing the beat back. 💛 Support the Band’s Journey: Help send Cody’s Marching Band to perform on a national stage. Donate here: https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/detroit-public-schools-foundation/cody-high-school-band-trip #Detroit #CodyHighSchool #MarchingBand #DPSCD #MusicEducation #DetroitPride #SupportTheBand
Fox 2 8am | Reviving Detroit’s Marching Band Tradition
After 20 years of silence, Cody High School’s marching band is back — and the sound of Detroit pride is louder than ever. Led by Band Director Damian Lyles, who moved back home after years of teaching in Florida, this revival is more than music — it’s a movement. With help from a $439,000 grant supporting music education across the Detroit Public Schools Community District, Lyles and his students are rebuilding a legacy that once defined the city’s school spirit. For many students, this is their first time picking up an instrument — and it’s already changing lives. The band has become a source of pride, confidence, and community connection, reminding Detroit what it means to move in rhythm together. “It makes my soul grow. It makes me feel like I’m part of something much bigger than myself.” “To see them grow, not just musically but in maturity — it’s a great reward.” This isn’t just about one school’s homecoming — it’s about reviving Detroit’s marching band tradition and giving a new generation the chance to shine. 🎺 Watch now to see how Cody High School is bringing back the music, the movement, and the magic of Detroit’s sound. 💛 Support the Band’s Journey: Help send Cody’s Marching Band to perform on a national stage! Every donation helps cover travel, uniforms, and instruments. https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/detroit-public-schools-foundation/cody-high-school-band-trip #Detroit #CodyHighSchool #MarchingBand #DPSCD #MusicEducation #DetroitPride #CommunityImpact #Fox2Detroit #SupportTheBand
Fox 2 10pm | Reviving Detroit’s Marching Band Tradition | The Cody High School Comeback Story
After 20 years of silence, Cody High School’s marching band is making a powerful return — just in time for homecoming. In this inspiring segment reported by April Morton, Band Director Damian Lyles leads the charge to rebuild Cody’s proud musical legacy. Backed by the Out of School Time Grant from the Detroit Public Schools Community District Foundation, Lyles and his students are proving that tradition, teamwork, and resilience can bring a community back to life. For many of these young musicians, it’s their first time ever playing an instrument — and it’s transforming their confidence, friendships, and sense of pride. “We are back! Cody High School is back on the block, ready to bring it.” “Some students find new family, pride, and strength — that’s what band brings.” This is more than a music program. It’s a revival of Detroit’s school spirit, one note at a time. 🎺 Watch now to see how Cody’s new generation is marching its way back to greatness. #Detroit #CodyHighSchool #MarchingBand #DPSCD #MusicEducation #DetroitPride #CommunityImpact
Live in the D WDIV | Reviving the Cody High School Marching Band
Asante Clark, an eighth grade DPSCD student, shared their excitement about returning to school after summer break. They talked about reconnecting with friends, starting a new year with fresh energy, and meeting new teachers. Clark is especially eager to dive into science, a subject they love, and to explore new lessons that will fuel their curiosity and passion for discovery
Asante Clark, 8th Grade - Student Interview
The first day of school is here for Detroit Public Schools Community District students, and Fisher Magnet Academy made it unforgettable. From the band setting the tone with music to students sharing their excitement for new classes, the energy was electric. Leaders reminded us that every student has the potential to be college and career ready by showing up, being present, and embracing opportunities to grow. Students spoke about returning to friends, meeting new teachers, and diving into subjects like science that inspire them. This moment captures what back to school in Detroit is all about—creating a positive environment where children can learn, thrive, and rise to the occasion. We are excited for a productive school year and proud to support the journey of every DPSCD student. Let’s have a great year, DPSCD! #BackToSchool #DPSCD #FisherMagnetAcademy #DetroitPublicSchools #DetroitEducation #CollegeAndCareerReady
First Day Back | DPSCDF x Fisher Magnet Academy Welcomes Students
The Detroit Public Schools Community District Foundation plays a vital role in bridging the funding gap for Detroit's public schools, providing essential resources and support to ensure students have access to a quality education and the tools they need to succeed. As the district continues to face challenges, the foundation's work has become increasingly crucial, driven by a deep personal commitment to the community and a vision for long-term, sustainable impact.
About DPSCD Foundation
2025 Tyrone E. Winfrey Hall of Fame Alumni Gala Promo Video
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