Melissa Lewis

Experience

1. Director of Bands & Instrumental Music Coordinator

   Denison High School

   May 2019 — Present · Denison, TX, US

   Directed the varsity Wind Ensemble at Denison High School. Oversaw the Touch of Gold Marching Band, leading to the first Straight 1 distinction in over a decade and the first UIL Sweepstakes Award in school district history. Directed the Scott Middle School colorguard, as well as the Denison HS JV and Varsity winterguards. Increased student participation and achievement in the UIL Texas State Solo & Ensemble Contest, resulting in the first Outstanding Performer distinctions in district history. Increased student participation and achievement in the TMEA All Region, Area and All State bands, including a new school district record for Area Band members and the first All State Band students in thirty years.Founded an innovative district-wide all-girls jazz band called the Sweethearts of Swing to promote women in jazz. The Sweethearts of Swing and Jazz Band I have participated in local jazz band contests, and even opened for the famed UNT One O’Clock Lab Band. Developed a vertically aligned curriculum and coordinated activities across three campuses for grades 5-12. Supervised instruction for a team of six full time employees and sixteen auxiliary employees (including private lesson teachers and marching technicians). Managed the programs and budgets for all instrumental music, drill team and color guard - totally over yearly. Wrote and received grants totaling over Worked with three building principals and the Assistant Superintendent to manage the budget, input requisitions and purchase orders, and transportation requests. Prepared specifications for fine arts bids and supervise the purchase of capital outlay materials and equipment. Managed the uniform, instrument and music inventories on the Denison High School campus. Arranged for staff development, clinics and staff meetings designed to improve instruction. Assisted the Assistant Superintendent with the recruitment, hiring and training of instrumental music personnel.

Education

• University of North Texas

  Master's degree

  2022 — 2024

• University of North Texas Health Science Center School of Public Health

  Graduate Certificate

  2015 — 2019

• University of North Texas

  Bachelor's degree

  2010 — 2014