More than a Competition with Katie VanDoren
Regardless of fancy awards and high rankings, the impact left on students is the heart of a program's success. In this episode, I am joined by Katie VanDoren, Director of Bands at Vandegrift High School where we explore the true measure of program success, centered around student impact. Tune in to this episode for an inspiring discussion that highlights the meaning of success, balancing motherhood as a Head Band Director, and lessons learned from performing with Carolina Crown.
Katie VanDoren
Director of Bands, Vandegrift HS
Katie VanDoren is the Director of Bands at Vandegrift High School in Austin, Texas. Mrs. VanDoren has been at Vandegrift HS since 2014, and worked at Round Rock HS in Round Rock, TX before that. Originally from Cedar Park, Texas, Mrs. VanDoren graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of North Texas with a bachelor’s degree in Music Education.
VanDoren is currently the Assistant Brass Caption Head of the Santa Clara Vanguard Drum and Bugle Corps. Prior to this position, she spent 12 years with Carolina Crown. She joined the brass staff in 2013, after marching with the corps from 2008-2012. VanDoren also works with the SASI Leadership Faculty, a group of current and former teachers dedicated to developing student leaders. Since 2013, she has enjoyed getting to be a part of the “SASI Experience”, an uplifting and empowering environment for both students and staff.
Mrs. VanDoren’s professional affiliations include the Texas Music Educators Association and the Texas Bandmasters Association. She currently resides in Austin, Texas with her husband Evan, daughter Anna, and their dog, Cooper, where both enjoy being part of a wonderful community of outstanding music educators.
