Fine Arts Staff

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 30

Current Teaching Position: Fine Arts Director/Head Band Director

College/University: East Texas State University -Music Education All Level

Previous Schools: Mineola, Queen City and Clarksville

Director Accolades: Mr. Brannan’s bands have earned numerous prestigious accolades throughout his distinguished 30-year career as a band director. His ensembles have achieved six UIL State Marching Championships, in addition to Silver and Bronze Medals. On the concert stage, his bands have been named TMEA Honor Band three times across two different districts, earning additional recognition with the esteemed Sudler Shield Award, the National Band Association "Citation of Excellence" Award, and the "Summa Cum Laude Award" from WBDI. His programs have also claimed the Outstanding Performance Series State Winner title an impressive 15 times.

Recognized for his excellence in music education, Mr. Brannan was named the 2012 Cass County Teacher of the Year and received the 2015 UIL Sponsor Excellence Award from the State of Texas. He has served in leadership roles as the ATSSB Region 4 Coordinator and a TBA Region 4 Representative and is currently an active TMAA judge for UIL Band Events at the region, area, and state levels.

Now in his third year at Barbers Hill, Mr. Brannan is honored to serve as the Director of Fine Arts and Director of Bands for this exceptional district. Under his leadership, the Fine Arts program has flourished. In 2023, the high school band achieved runner-up finishes at the state level for both Honor Band and Marching Band, followed by an advancement to the UIL State Marching Contest in 2024. The theater program has also excelled, earning Silver at the 2023 State One-Act Play Contest and Bronze in 2024. Additionally, the choir program continues to garner acclaim, most recently being selected as a Showcase Choir for the State Music Convention in San Antonio.

Personal Information: Mr. Brannan has been happily married to his wife, Monica, for 26 years, and together they have four children: Randi, Toni, Bayleigh, and Cody. Monica is also a proud member of the Barbers Hill ISD team. The Brannan family resides in Mont Belvieu, where they share their home with their two French Bulldogs and a Boston Terrier.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 15

Current Teaching Position: Assistant Band Director, Color Guard Director, Applied Music I - IV

College/University: Music Education at Midwestern State University; Dance and P.E. Certified 

Previous Schools:  Crystal City ISD, Wills Point ISD, Terrell ISD

Directing Accolades: Mr. Ascaño’s impressive career is marked by multiple Concert and Sight-Reading Sweepstakes honors and two-time WGI Regional Finalist recognition. He is TEA Certified in Music, Dance, and P.E., and has participated as a finalist in both UIL 4A and 5A State Marching Band competitions. As an equipment judge for TECA, he has contributed his expertise to the marching arts. Mr. Ascaño has also shared his knowledge as a session presenter for ATSSB and TBA. His performance experience includes being a member of the DCI Blue Knights (2007-2008) and marching with WGI Black Gold in 2005, 2010, and 2019. Additionally, he earned All-State honors in 5A at the TMEA Convention in 2004.

Personal Information: Mr. Ascaño is a graduate of Midwestern State University and Rider High School in Wichita Falls, TX. He currently teaches the BHHS Symphonic Band, BHHS Color Guard, and ISN Beginner Saxophone. Outside of his teaching, he enjoys hiking, caring for plants, spending time with dogs, and traveling the world.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 10+ years at a dance studio; 3 years in public education

Current Teaching Position: Director of Eaglettes Dance Team and Dance I - IV Director

College/University: Bachelor of Science in Dance and Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Lamar University

Previous District: Goose Creek CISD

Personal Information: Mrs. Bell is a Baytown native and a former four-year member of the Sterling Stars Drill Team. She served as Major during her junior year and as Colonel, the highest-ranking position, in her senior year.

Mrs. Bell is a graduate of Lamar University, where she earned two bachelor's degrees—one in Interdisciplinary Studies and another in Dance. She was the owner of Baytown Dance Company for a decade, teaching ballet, tap, and jazz.

Mrs. Bell has been married to her husband, Derek, for 15 years, and they have one daughter, Gracie.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 6

Current Teaching Position: Assistant Band Director, Percussion Director

College/University: Bachelor of Science in Music Education from East Texas A&M University

Previous District: Mineola ISD

Director Accolades: Mr. Brannon's drumlines have won multiple awards, including 15 Best in Class Percussion Awards, 8 Second Place Overall Percussion Caption Placements, and 6 Best Overall Percussion Caption Awards. He also premiered and conducted the percussion ensemble Berserker at the 2019 TMEA 3A Honor Band Concert.

Mr. Brannon has earned two UIL State 3A Marching Gold Medals and assisted with a UIL State 5A Marching Contest appearance, where his percussion section ranked 15th overall. His students have placed in TMEA and ATSSB Region and Area auditions, and many have received Division 1 ratings at UIL State Solo and Ensemble, including two Outstanding Soloist recipients. Additionally, Mr. Brannon's percussion ensembles have placed 1st, 2nd, and 4th at various Percussion Ensemble Festivals.

Personal Information: When Mr. Brannon is not at work, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Amy, and their energetic four-year-old.

Number of Years Teaching: 20

Current Teaching Position: Lead Art Teacher

College/University: Bachelor of Arts in Art at University of Texas at Austin; Education Post-Baccalaureate Program at Lamar University

Previous Schools: Warren ISD

Teaching Accolades: Reaud Excellence in Education Award Recipient, AP Art Reader, VASE Juror

Personal Information:  Ms. Elliott has taught in Barbers Hill for 4 years. She has three children, two grandchildren, and one grouchy cat. Ms. Elliott enjoys drawing, painting, stand-up comedy, and beach days.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 9

Current Teaching Position: Assistant Choir Director

College/University: Lamar University

Previous Schools: Goose Creek CISD

Personal Information: Mrs. Hilyard has been married to her husband for 13 years. They have three children: Harrison (10), Lorelei (8), and Holden (6). They attend Second Baytown and love serving their community.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 18

Current Teaching Position: English III, Assistant Director of Eaglettes

College/University: Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication - Electronic Media at Southwest Texas State University

Previous Schools: Goose Creek CISD

Personal Information: Mrs. Hopper was a four-year member of the Sterling Stars Drill Team, where she held the title of Major of Reserves. She is married to Kyle, and they have two children, Reese and Kylie.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 28

Current Teaching Position: Technical Theatre Director

College/University: Bachelor of Arts at Texas A&M University - College Station

Previous Schools: Deer Park ISD

Director Accolades: Mr. Irwin's students have earned 4 State One Act Play Appearances and 3 State Theatrical Design Appearances.

Personal Information: Mr. Irwin's teaching career began at Deer Park High School. A native of Pasadena, Texas, he was hired in 2013 to begin the Technical Theatre program at Barbers Hill High School. Mr. Irwin is married to his wife, Sheralyn, and has two children, Christian and Savannah.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 12 

Current Teaching Position: Head Theatre Director, Advanced Theatre I & II, Theatre Production, Theatre I - IV

College/University: East Texas Baptist University

Previous Schools: Deer Park ISD

Directing Accolades: Ms. Kouba is a highly accomplished educator with a distinguished record of success, including twice serving as an OAP State Placing Director (2023, 2024). She has also led her teams to 12 OAP District Championships and was named the 2016 Deer Park ISD Secondary Teacher of the Year. 

Personal Information: In addition to directing, Ms. Kouba serves at her local church as a worship leader. In her free time, she enjoys going to Pilates, watching college football, and walking her dog, Tucker, at the park.

Number of Years at BHISD: K-12 Class of 1989; 9 years.

Current Position: Secretary, Director of Fine Arts

College/University:  BS Management - University of Phoenix; AAS Legal Studies - San Jacinto College

Previous Career:  Investor Relations/Corporate Communications (16 years); Paralegal (5 years)   

Accolades:  BHISD Mentor of the Year (2016)

Personal Information:   Mrs. Novosad took an early retirement in 2011 to stay at home with her children.  During her eight years at home, she spent most of her time volunteering with youth ministry, serving as room mom, and mentoring.  She found a love for being in the classroom and began substitute teaching in 2016.  Prior to joining the staff full-time in 2020, Mrs. Novosad served as President of the BH Band Booster Club for five years.

Mrs. Novosad has been married to her husband Matt for 26 years.  Their three children are all Eagles (C/O '19, '22 and '26). In her spare time, Mrs. Novosad enjoys traveling with her family, and volunteering in multiple ministries at her church.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 4

Current Teaching Position: Assistant Band Director - Percussion

College/University:  Texas A&M University - Commerce

Previous Schools:  Killeen ISD

Directing Accolades:  Mr. Rojas is a dedicated Vic Firth Educator with a passion for percussion excellence. Under his guidance, the Barbers Hill Front Ensemble secured a 1st place finish at the 2022 Aldine Drumline Contest. As a performer, he showcased his talent on a national stage as a member of the Phantom Regiment Front Ensemble in 2019.

Personal Information: Mr. Rojas recently married in June 2024 and enjoys life with his two turtles, Juanita and Godzi, along with his husky, Arya. In his free time, he enjoys listening to scary story podcasts and composing music for the marimba.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 18

Current Teaching Position: Head Choir Director

Colleges/Universities: Bachelor's of Music Education at Baylor University

Previous Schools: Waco ISD, Goose Creek CISD

Directing Accolades: Mrs. Taleno was named Baytown Sun's Top 23 under 40 in 2020.

Personal Information: Mrs. Taleno is married to Robert and has two children, Leilani & Zeke. Mrs. Taleno is passionate about helping students achieve competitive success in music. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys sharing her musical talents by singing with the Houston Skyline Band.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 24

Current Teaching Position: Assistant Choir Director

College/University: Bachelor of Music Education at Louisiana State University

Previous Schools: Deer Park ISD

Directing Accolades: Mr. Truitt's students earned the 2017 TMEA Honor Choir  and Deer Park Junior High Tenor Bass Choir.

Personal Information:  Mr. Truitt has been married to his wife, Laura, for 26 years. They have two sons. Carter (23) is a history teacher and coach in Deer Park ISD, and Landon (19) is a Computer Engineering major at the University of Houston.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 7

Current Teaching Position: Assistant Band Director & Jazz Band Director

College/University: Bachelor of Music and Master of Music from Stephen F. Austin State University

Previous Schools: Cedar Bayou Junior School and Sterling High School

Directing Accolades: 

Mr. Watson has had consecutive sweepstakes ratings for his concert bands at UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contests.  He started the jazz band class at Cedar Bayou Junior School in GCCISD.  At Barbers Hill, the Soaring Eagle Jazz Band has been named a Commended Winner in 2023, and a National Winner in the 2024 Mark of Excellence National Jazz Honors.  They also have taken 2^nd place in the 2023 Jazz at the Falls Contest and 1^st place at the 2024 Bill Watrous Jazz Festival at Sam Houston State University.

Mr. Watson is a current TMEA and TJEA member.  He has also held the position of principal trombone player for the Bay Area Philharmonic, (formerly known as Baytown Symphony Orchestra) for the past 5 years.  He has also served on staff at Stephen F. Austin State University Summer Band Camps for trombone and low brass classes since 2021.

Personal Information: Dwight currently resides in Baytown with his beautiful wife, Blanca, and their son, Felix.

Current Position: Color Guard Assistant

College/University:  Full-time student at University of Houston, Clear Lake;  BS Kinesiology Major with Minor in Biology.

Previous Schools:  2023 Graduate of Barbers Hill High School;  Served as a part-time Color Guard Assistant at Sterling HS/Goose Creek ISD in the 23-24 school year.

Personal Information:  In addition to being a 4-year member of the Soaring Eagle Color Guard, Bella played Trombone in the Symphonic Band.  Upon graduating from UHCL in 2026, her plan is to pursue a Masters' Degree.

In her spare time, Bella enjoys shopping and traveling to new places.

Number of Years Teaching: 24

Current Teaching Position: Art Teacher

College/University: Sam Houston State University

Previous Schools: Goose Creek CISD, Dayton ISD

Directing Accolades: Ms. Clark was selected by her art professors in college to be mentored by the renowned artist David Adickes. Over the course of two and a half years, she assisted him in building the 65-foot-tall statue of Sam Houston, located off I-45 in Huntsville, Texas. The statue is titled A Tribute to Courage.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 10

Current Teaching Position: Choir Director

College/University: Lamar University

Previous Schools: Goose Creek CISD

Personal Information: Mrs. Cole loves teaching choir at Barbers Hill and is grateful for the support of her husband, Jonathan, and their two children, Cadence and JJ, who are also BH Eagle students!

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 18

Current Teaching Position: Assistant Band Director

College/University: Masters of Music in Clarinet Performance at University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory

Previous Schools: Lufkin ISD, Longview ISD, Spring ISD, Klein ISD, Nacogdoches ISD

Directing Accolades: Ms. Ray's bands have consistently received superior ratings at UIL Concert and Sight-reading contests. She recently presented a clinic on teaching clarinet at the Texas Bandmasters Association conference and served on the committee to revise the UIL Prescribed Music List for clarinet.

Personal Information: Outside of teaching band, Ms. Ray enjoys playing the clarinet, reading, and cycling.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 21

Current Teaching Position: Theatre Director

College/University: Bachelor of Science in Education with a focus on Communication Arts

Previous Schools: Clear Creek ISD, Crosby ISD

Directing Accolades: Mrs. Vass has earned 14 UIL One-Act Play victories and was honored as Teacher of the Year for her outstanding contributions to education and theater. BHISD Secondary Teacher of the Year, 2024-2025.

Personal Information: Mrs. Vass is a proud wife and mother.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 14

Current Teaching Position: Band Director

College/University: Lamar University

Previous Schools: Humble ISD, Denver City ISD

Directing Accolades: Under Mr. Wolfe's direction, his beginning bands have won eleven first-place awards at festivals such as the Splashtown Contest (hosted by Gabe Musella), the Gator Music Festival (hosted by John Hinojosa), and the Abernathy Band Festival (hosted by Matt Knight). His advanced ensembles have earned numerous accolades, including Best in Class and Overall Outstanding Band honors at various festivals. Mr. Wolfe's bands have consistently achieved UIL Sweepstakes recognition and have remained competitive at the regional, area, and state levels in the TMEA Honor Band competition. Additionally, he enjoys serving as a band clinician and UIL adjudicator throughout Texas.

Personal Information: Cameron Wolfe is entering his 14th year of teaching and is currently in his 5th year at Barbers Hill ISD.

At Barbers Hill Middle School North, Mr. Wolfe conducts the Honor Band, Jazz Band, and assists with the Symphonic and Concert Bands. He also teaches beginning trumpet and beginning French horn. Mr. Wolfe’s bands have consistently earned UIL Sweepstakes ratings, unanimous first-division ratings at various contests, and Best in Class and Overall Outstanding Band honors. His bands also compete in the UIL Honor Band competition, where they have earned region, area, and state placements. Over the course of his 14-year career, Mr. Wolfe's beginning bands have collectively earned eleven first-place finishes in festivals such as the Splashtown Band Festival (hosted by Gabe Musella), the Gator Music Festival (hosted by John Hinojosa), and the Abernathy Music Festival (hosted by Matt Knight).

Before joining Barbers Hill, Mr. Wolfe served as the Head Band Director at Atascocita Middle School in Humble ISD and as the Assistant Band Director in Denver City ISD. He earned his Bachelor of Music degree from Lamar University, where he studied under Dr. Scott Deppe, Dr. Ryan Smith, Dr. Raul Ornelas, and Dr. Brian Shook. While in college, Mr. Wolfe was a member of the Lamar Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Pep Band, Trumpet Ensemble, and served as trumpet section leader in the Showcase of Southeast Texas Marching Band.

Mr. Wolfe is an active clinician and judge in the band community and maintains professional affiliations with the Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Bandmasters Association, and Texas Music Adjudicators Association.

He enjoys motivating young musicians to reach the highest levels of performance by sharing his passion for music daily. Mr. Wolfe feels honored to work alongside colleagues who share his commitment to maximizing student success and is grateful for the loving support of his family, mentors, and friends who have shaped his career.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 22

Current Teaching Position: Theatre Director

College/University: Bachelor of Music in Musical Theatre, Master of Science in Theatre

Previous Schools: Allen ISD

Directing Accolades: Mrs. Balogh is a veteran director with an extensive career in theatre, having directed 22 UIL One Act Plays and 25 musicals. Her productions have achieved remarkable success, including seven UIL One Act Play contest wins and 13 runner-up finishes. Her students have earned numerous individual accolades, including Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Performer, All-Star Cast, and Honorable Mention All-Star Cast, along with six Outstanding Tech Crew awards.

A dedicated educator, Mrs. Balogh was named Teacher of the Year in 2014 at Ereckson Middle School in Allen ISD and has been recognized as a Lifetime PTA Member for her community leadership. In 2019, she received the Love Thy Neighbor Award from Judge Blake Silvia for her contributions to the Mont Belvieu community. Most recently, in 2024, she was honored as the Cream of the Crop – Best Middle School Teacher by Baytown 411.

Mrs. Balogh is deeply grateful for the support of the Barbers Hill community, which has allowed the middle school theatre program to thrive, giving students the opportunity to shine both on and off the stage.

Personal Information: Mrs. Balogh is devoted to her family and adorable golden retrievers.

Number of Years Teaching: 22

Current Teaching Position: Art Teacher, Professional Communications Teacher

College/University: Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Science at Lamar University

Previous Schools: Goose Creek CISD

Personal Information: Mrs. Griffis is married to her best friend, Toby Griffis. Together, they have two wonderful sons, Cody (31) and Reagan (25). Cody is married to his soulmate, Lauren, and they have blessed Mrs. Griffis with two beautiful granddaughters. Charlotte Sue, who is 2 ½ years old, and Norah Faye, who is 8 months old, make Granna and T-Paw the two happiest people on the planet.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 16

Current Teaching Position: Choir Director

College/University: University of Texas at San Antonio, University of North Texas

Previous Schools: Goose Creek CISD

Director Accolades: Mrs. Mejia is a dedicated and results-oriented music educator with 16 years of experience teaching at both the high school and middle school levels. As a former lead mentor for all new and first-year teachers in GCCISD, she has shown a strong passion for instructional leadership and professional development.

Personal Information: Mrs. Mejia has been married for 23 years to Danny Mejia, an elementary music educator in GCCISD. Together, they are proud parents of their son, Jacob Mejia, a student at Middle School North. A former opera singer, Mireya brings her passion for music and performance into her teaching, inspiring her students to reach their fullest potential.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 16

Current Position: Band Director

College/University:  McNeese State University

Previous Schools: Little Cyprus Mauriceville CISD, Clarksville ISD

Directing Accolades: Mr. Ochoa is a consistent UIL Sweepstakes Award winner and has led bands to the UIL State Marching Contest. He has also advanced to the State Honor Band Competition and was honored as the 2014 Little Cypress Jr. High Teacher of the Year.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 17

Current Position: Assistant Band Director

College/University:  Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Music at Lamar University

Previous Schools: Little Cyprus Mauriceville CISD

Personal Information: Mrs. Stone lives in Mont Belvieu with her husband, Kevin, and their youngest daughter. Their oldest daughter, Tori, a graduate of Baylor University with a degree in music education, is currently teaching band in the Dallas area. Their son, Colby, is working toward a degree in music education at The University of Texas in Austin.

Number of Years Teaching: 8

Current Teaching Position: Art Teacher

College/University: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art and Design at University of Houston-Clear Lake

Previous Schools: Goose Creek CISD, Jacksonville North Pulaski School District

Personal Information: Mrs. Fontenot is married, has a three-year-old son, and three dogs. Her hobbies include creating art and photography.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 11

Current Teaching Position: Music Teacher, Choir Director

College/University: Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Performance at Lamar University

Previous Schools: Bridge City ISD, Goose Creek CISD

Director Accolades: In her 11 years of teaching, Mrs. Howerton has taught 4th-12th grade students, helping them succeed in the choir world in numerous ways. Her choirs have earned many awards, including multiple UIL Concert and Sightreading Sweepstakes over the past 11 years, numerous UIL solo and ensemble superior ratings, and several first-place trophies at various competitions. Teaching choir and music across multiple grade levels has allowed her to grow as an educator. She remains committed to continuing her growth and sharing her passion for choral music and music in general with her students. She looks forward to many more years at Barbers Hill.

Personal Information: Mrs. Howerton has been married for 10 years to her high school sweetheart, Cole. Together, they have two beautiful children, Clark and Emma, as well as a beloved fur baby named Lady.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 27

Current Teaching Position: Assistant Band Director

College/University: Bachelor of Music Education at Lamar University and a Masters in Counseling and Human Development at Lamar University

Previous Schools: Pasadena ISD, Hardin-Jefferson ISD, Orangefield ISD

Directing Accolades: Ms. King consistently earns 1st divisions at UIL Concert and Sightreading Contests and enjoys being invited to judge various band events. She was also honored with the opportunity to serve as the guest clinician for the Beaumont All-City Band.

Personal Information:  Ms. King is the proud mother of two rockstar daughters! Kate is a senior Percussion Performance major at Indiana University (Go Hoosiers!), and Laura is a senior at Anahuac High School, where she shines as a very talented dancer. She feels incredibly fortunate to be their mom!

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 14

Current Teaching Position: Music Teacher/ Choir Director 

College/University: Bachelors in Music Education at Stephen F. Austin State University 

Previous Schools: Goose Creek ISD (9 years)

Directing Accolades:  Mrs. Kohles has earned many awards, including multiple UIL Concert and Sightreading Sweepstakes over the span of her career, numerous UIL solo and ensemble superior ratings, also for several years has had students make the TCDA Honor Choirs, and 2 years in a row of superior rating at the Shadow Creek Choir Festival. She is also a member of TMEA, TCDA and TMAA.

Personal Information:  Mrs. Kohles is married to her high school sweetheart, Brad and has one energetic daughter, Clarise. Outside of school, she sings for St. Louis Catholic Church, praise and worship for various retreats and is also a member of the St. Anthony's Cathedral Basilica Schola.

Number of Years Teaching: 16

Current Teaching Position: Art Teacher

College/University: Bachelor of Fine Arts and Digital and Photographic Imaging at Texas State University; Art Education at the University of North Texas

Personal Information: Ms. Sherman has dedicated her entire art teaching career to being a BH Eagle. She taught at Middle School North from 2009 to 2023 and at Intermediate School North from 2023 to 2025. Throughout her career, she has taught a variety of subjects, including Study Skills, Leadworthy, and Yearbook, in addition to Art. She has also coached multiple UIL Art History teams.

One of her greatest joys each year is the campus Chair Affair/Art for Chair-ity event. During this project, students paint unique stools and chairs to auction off for a charity chosen by the students. This event teaches students that their artistic talents can make a meaningful impact on others' lives. Through their work, they learn teamwork, integrity, empathy, and the importance of sacrificial love for people they may never meet.

Ms. Sherman deeply values the Barbers Hill community and school district. She feels privileged to collaborate with the district’s talented art teachers in art-centered professional development and the annual Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo School Art Competition.

Outside the classroom, she enjoys traveling and hiking with her husband and two sons, who also attend Barbers Hill schools.

Number of Years Teaching: 12

Current Teaching Position: Art Teacher

College/University: University of Houston-Clear Lake

Personal Information: Ms. Clement believes that all learners have the potential to be artists. She strives to create a warm, safe, and supportive environment that fosters creativity, problem-solving, and confidence. Passionate about her work, she finds joy in inspiring and shaping the lives of future leaders of America.

Number of Years Teaching: 11

Current Teaching Position: Art Teacher

College/University: Bachelor of Fine Arts and EC-12 Art Education at University of Houston-Clear Lake

Previous Schools: Pearland ISD, Goose Creek CISD

Directing Accolades: Ms. Gaughan holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Arts and Applied Design and an EC-12 Art Education Certification. She is a former teacher at the UHCL Art School for Children and Young Adults, serving students in both CCISD and UHCL. A dedicated member of the Texas Art Educators Association, she was recognized as an Outstanding Art Educator by the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, earning a Best of Show award in 2022.

Personal Information: Ms. Gaughan actively participates in the Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE) and Junior VASE, supporting students in their artistic growth and achievement. Outside of education, she has a strong passion for art, design, and travel. She is also a Certified Real Estate Home Marketing Specialist with expertise in home design and staging.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 24

Current Teaching Position: Music Teacher, Choir Director

College/University: Bachelor of Arts at Lamar University

Previous Schools: Lumberton ISD, Goose Creek CISD, Leader ISD, Humble ISD

Directing Accolades: Mrs. Guseman has led numerous choral groups to success at UIL, earning multiple sweepstakes trophies. She has guided hundreds of students to placements in All-Region Choirs and has had numerous students selected for the TCDA All-State Honor Choir.

An active adjudicator for UIL and TMEA, Mrs. Guseman also serves as a clinician for Region and Honor Choirs. She is a proud member of TMAA, TMEA, and TCDA. Above all, she values making meaningful connections with her students.

Personal Information: Outside the music classroom, Mrs. Guseman enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring fashion and film, and embracing creativity in all aspects of life. She has been married to her husband, Sam, for 19 years, and they have an 11-year-old daughter, Gia, who is a proud member of the ISS choir.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 10

Current Teaching Position: Music Teacher, Choir Director

College/University: Texas State University

Previous Schools: Comal ISD

Directing Accolades: Rachel Rozsypal is an accomplished vocalist and performer with a distinguished musical background. A proud graduate of Barbers Hill High School, Mrs. Rozsypal has showcased her talent on prestigious stages, including a performance at Carnegie Hall. She was also honored with an invitation to sing with Sing America overseas, further solidifying her reputation as an exceptional artist.

Recognized for her dedication and skill, Mrs. Rozsypal has received multiple campus grants and awards for musical excellence. As a member of the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA), she continues to contribute to the advancement of music education and performance.

Personal Information: Ms. Rozsypal is a devoted mother who finds joy in caring for her special needs child, creating a nurturing and supportive home environment. She treasures time with family and friends, making lasting memories through shared experiences.

A passionate music enthusiast, she enjoys playing the ukulele and often brings it along on her travels. One of her favorite pastimes is visiting the river with her golden retriever, Sandy, where they enjoy the outdoors together. She also takes great pride in staying connected with former students, attending their events to celebrate their achievements and milestones.

Number of Years Teaching/Directing: 24

Current Teaching Position: Band Director

College/University: Bachelor of Music Education at Lamar University

Previous Schools: Bridge City ISD, Little Cypress-Mauriceville CISD

Directing Accolades: Mrs. Talbert’s bands have consistently earned Sweepstakes trophies at UIL and have placed four times in the TMEA State Honor Band competition. In 2004, she was recognized as Mauriceville Middle School Teacher of the Year and Little Cypress-Mauriceville C.I.S.D. Secondary Teacher of the Year. In 2010, she was honored as Phi Beta Mu’s Outstanding Young Bandmaster of the Year.

Since 2011, Mrs. Talbert has served as a band director at Barbers Hill ISD in Mont Belvieu, TX. Her professional affiliations include the Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Bandmasters Association, Texas Music Adjudicators Association, Delta Omicron (Professional Music Fraternity), Women Band Directors International, and Phi Beta Mu (Honorary Music Fraternity).

Personal Information: Mrs. Talbert is an active clinician, adjudicator, and music educator in both Texas and Louisiana. She resides in Mont Belvieu, TX, with her husband, Nick, and their daughters: Lucy, Bailey, Lily, and Shelly.