From student to head director, Rae Jones takes the baton to shape the future
For Rae Jones, leading the Bedford Bearcat Band isn’t just a job—it’s coming full circle. A proud graduate of the Class of 2015, she was molded by Nichols and Shauf, mentored through college, and encouraged to follow her dream of teaching music.
After earning her degree from the University of Mount Union, Rae returned to Bedford, teaching everywhere from kindergarten to high school band rooms. Her approach blends tradition with innovation, always rooted in deep empathy and resilience.
Resourceful and determined, Rae repairs instruments herself, arranges music when budgets fall short, and builds programs that reflect cultural relevance while preserving core traditions. As the first Black female head band director in school history, she’s not just making history—she’s honoring it.
Article 5 of 7 in a series
