When the Southaven High School Band Boosters uncovered that nearly $40,000 had gone missing from their accounts, the news shook the local community. According to law-enforcement records, the former treasurer, Krystina Thompson, is accused of embezzling $39,161 for personal use between June 2024 and March 2025. She was arrested in August, pleaded not guilty, and remains out on bond awaiting trial.
“For someone we trusted — a parent and booster-club board member — to betray our students and programs in this way has been heartbreaking,” stated the Boosters in response to the arrest.
The Fundraiser: “Oh! Whata Night” by Whataburger
To help the band rebuild, Whataburger is stepping in with its own community-support event. On Tuesday, October 21, from 6–8 p.m., their Getwell Road branch in Southaven will host a special fundraiser. For every dine-in or drive-thru order during those hours, 20% of sales will be donated directly to the Boosters.
This kind of assistance comes at a crucial time: the band needs funding for instrument rentals, new uniforms, transporting students to competitions, camp attendance, and meals during events.
The Bigger Picture: Restoring Trust & Supporting Students
Following the theft, the Boosters have been working tirelessly to recover and raise funds to cover previously budgeted costs now at risk. The support from Whataburger and similar local fundraisers—such as a recent event held by Chick‑fil‑A in Southaven—serve not only to provide financial relief, but also to reaffirm the community’s belief in the value of the band program.
These fundraisers emphasize two important points:
- Accountability in non-profit and school-related organizations is critical.
- Community support plays a key role when setbacks threaten student-programs.
