Spotlight Series

Welcome to the Fine Arts Spotlight Series! This district-wide recognition initiative celebrates the incredible dedication, growth, and community spirit across our entire fine arts family.

Congratulations Violet Delaney from Richland High School! Violet was nominated for her incredible dedication to student success, professional strength, and enrichment of our school community.

Thank you, Gina Mock, for nominating and recognizing Mrs. Delaney!🎨

"...She creates a culture of collaboration, encouragement, and high expectations, empowering her peers to grow while always keeping student success at the center of every decision..."

Leading with Heart: An Interview with the Rock Hill Drum Major

From the high-stakes pressure of the podium to the rigorous demands of a heavy AP course load, serving as a student leader requires immense dedication, clarity, and heart. Makayla Hall is the Rock Hill drum major and in our Student Spotlight interview she shared a behind-the-scenes look at her journey, leadership philosophy, and exciting future plans.

Overcoming Doubt and Stepping into Leadership

The transition into a high school music program can be incredibly daunting, even for accomplished musicians. Reflecting on her freshman year, Makayla recalled feeling intimidated despite arriving as a region first-chair player. The turning point came when band director Mr. Neugent recognized her potential.

"Mr. Neugent approached me and said I needed to try out for drum major," Makyala shared. "I was shocked because I didn't see myself as that kind of leader, but his confidence in me changed my perspective."

A People-First Philosophy on the Podium

When asked about the most challenging aspect of directing the band from the podium, the answer had nothing to do with keeping time and everything to do with community building.

"My top goal is making sure I know every single person in the band—their name, what they are struggling with, and how I can help," she explained. "I firmly believe that 'if they don't know that you care, then they don't care what you know.' Building those authentic connections takes effort, but serving them is my primary job."

Balancing High Standards with Deep Roots

Balancing demanding leadership duties with a packed academic schedule is no small feat. Makayla's secret lies in a highly practical mantra: "Do something that your future self will thank you for." This intense drive is anchored by a solid foundation of faith and family support. Whether she is conducting an intense marching band routine or trying out new a instrument her loved ones are always nearby.

Clear Skies Ahead

Looking beyond graduation, this drum major's trajectory is set remarkably high. Makayla plans to first serve an 18-month church mission before heading to Brigham Young University (BYU) to major in Aerospace Science and train to become a commercial pilot.

"Band has been such a big part of my life, I don't know who I would be without it."

"Makayla is a senior 3rd-year Drum Major of the Rock Hill Band. She is a consummate leader who does not seek the spotlight. She is constantly propping up other leaders and giving them the opportunity to develop their leadership skills (even when it's clear her's are stronger). She mentors and guides them providing a safety-net for when they make mistakes. She is also willing to step in and take over when they are struggling (but never driven by ego to do so). She always goes the extra mile and puts in the extra time necessary to lead. She does all of this while maintaining a positive outlook and attitude. Makayla Hall is one of the most thoughtful and adept student leaders I've had the pleasure of teaching in my 30 years as an educator."

- Nathaniel Neugent; Rock Hill Head Band Director

Mark of Excellence National Winner!

We are incredibly proud to announce that the Jones Middle School Wind Ensemble has been named a Mark of Excellence National Winner!

The Mark of Excellence is a national music competition sponsored by The Foundation for Music Education that recognizes outstanding band programs from across the country. Ensembles submit professional recordings that are evaluated by a panel of respected music educators and conductors, making this recognition an incredible honor.

Being named a National Winner means our students’ performance was selected among the very best ensembles in their classification nationwide. This achievement represents countless hours of rehearsal, individual practice, dedication, and teamwork from our students.

We could not be more proud of these musicians and the standard of excellence they continue to establish for the Jones Middle School Band! 💙🎶