Back in the early days of jazz, it was a very cultural music, something jazz people were exposed to constantly. However, through its evolution, it became very academic, especially in its theory. I had played rock and blues for almost ten years before I went to college, had lessons the whole time. But when I stepped foot in my first theory class, I was challenged. By the time I stepped in my third theory class (there are four, for a bachelor degree), I was getting stuffed and not having such a good time. There are alot of complicated lessons jazz players are expected to know. Complicated, because to staggering math (like the old V7b5#11alt chord and the 5 standard scales to improv alt chords with), and becuase for most of us, in the beginning, we didn't have anywhere to find the information we needed, and then someone who could spell it out in plain english!
I think the best thing to do, to save yourself a migraine headache, would probably be to go to the instructor of the jazz band and ask him what he would do. I'm sure he will have a lot of great advice. And, listen to the folks here in the forum- there's alot of great information and good people here.

Good luck.