Directors
Mr. Jonathan Willson is the Director of Bands at Huntington ISD. In this role, Mr. Willson serves as conductor of the high school band, directs the marching band and aids in the teaching at Huntington Middle School. Prior to his appointment, Mr. Willson served as Director of Bands at Corrigan-Camden ISD in Corrigan, Texas from 2012-2016.
Mr. Willson earned his Bachelor of Music Education from Texas A&M University-Commerce under the direction of Mr. Scott-Lee Atchison, Dr. Alan Mills and Dr. Todd Goranson. Mr. Willson is a graduate of Burnet High School in Burnet, Texas.
Mr. Willson, along with his wife Delaina, who teaches at Huntington Middle School, have two beautiful children, Myleah and Samuel. They enjoy spending time together outdoors, travelling and they attend Huntington First Baptist Church. Mr. Willson is a member of Texas Music Educators Association and Association of Texas Small School Bands.
My philosophy as Director of Bands is to provide each student with a comprehensive music education, while teaching the skills and attitudes necessary to succeed as a young musician and as a young adult. As well as benefit the school and community through public performances of quality music, while promoting and enhancing the dignity and reputation of Huntington ISD. I want to foster the development of essential character traits to include a strong work ethic, personal integrity, a commitment to excellence, and respect for self and others.
Miss Sarah Svehla is the Middle School Director/Assistant High School Director. She attended school at Nacogdoches ISD where she developed her passion for music. From that point she studied at Kilgore College earning an Associate’s Degree with honors and eventually continuing her degree at Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas. From there, she earned her Bachelor's of Music with an emphasis in Music Education and a Minor in History. During her collegiate career she had the wonderful opportunity to teach lessons to students in the community in which she lived. While there she served as the Principle Bass Clarinetist for the Lamar University Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble. She completed her student teaching experience at Hardin- Jefferson ISD where she worked with Middle and High School students. She has thoroughly enjoyed the experience to get to learn under so many inspiring professionals and she hopes to instill a love for music in the future generations.
Mr. Caleb Bristow is the Middle School Study Skills Teacher, 6th Grade Beginner Brass teacher, Assistant Band Director, and Low Brass Specialist. He went to Lufkin ISD Playing Euphonium in the Panther Band. He attended Kilgore College, graduating with an Associate’s Degree. While attending Kilgore, he auditioned for the State Junior College Band and was accepted to play at TMEA (Texas Music Educators Association). He continued his education at Stephen F. Austin State University, earning his Bachelor’s of Music with an emphasis in Music Education. While at SFA, he performed with the Lumberjack marching band, the Wind Ensemble, and the Tuba-Euphonium Studio. He student taught at Henderson ISD where he worked at both the High school and middle school.