I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to those of you who I have not yet had the pleasure to meet.  In 1981 I received my B.A. from Bethune Cookman.  I come to you with high expectations, and excitement at the opportunity to have a hand in helping to establish this great program.  I bring with me many years of experience, I have been directing high school band programs since 1981, and have had the pleasure of seeing bands under my direction receive superior ratings consistently since 1983.

I have high hopes for the East Ridge Band Program, and will earnestly strive for excellence in all that we do.  My goal is to provide the students with an exceptional education, enhanced by a top-notch musical experience.  You will find that I will be committed to the band and expect students to be just as dedicated to the program themselves.  I require a lot of my students, and myself and believe that together we can accomplish anything we set our minds and hearts to.

My personal gold is to make a contribution toward each student’s attainment of a happy, useful, and successful life, while providing the opportunity for preparation to further music education.  Through the band program, students will be enabled to obtain the varied needs to pursue their education beyond the high school years.  Although I follow the guidelines set by the Lake County School Board, I will go a step beyond in building a band based not only on musical talent, but moreover on high moral, and cultural values.  It is my belief that high moral conduct is the backbone of any successful program, and I look forward for support from the parents and students.

My professional affiliations include the Florida Bandmasters Association, National Jazz Association, Music Education National Conference, and I am is a Florida Bandmaster’s Adjudicator.

I received the Ida S. Baker Distinguished Minority Educator Recognition 1997-98, Teacher of the year for East Ridge High School 2004-2005 and name one of "Who's Who among America's Teachers 2007-2008.

Jon T. North is entering his second year at East Ridge High School. Mr. North comes to us from Western Michigan University, where he received his B.A. in Music Education in 2008.

Before his position here, Mr. North was a clinician in several music programs in Indiana and Michigan. He also, performed with the University Percussion Ensemble, held various leadership positions in the WMU Bronco Marching Band, and was principal timpanist in the WMU Symphonic Band with which he toured China during the summer of 2006.

Mr. North conducts the Symphonic Band at the high school, as well the ERHS Percussion Ensemble, and assists in the Knights Marching Band. Mr. North also is the Director of the Indoor Percussion Unit. This past year, the East Ridge High School Percussion Group medaled with 2^nd place in their class at the statewide championships.

His professional affiliations include the Florida Bandmasters Association, Tri-M Music Honor Society Sponsor, member of MENC, and a 5 year member of the Percussive Arts Society.