About our program

Raymore-Peculiar is a single school district serving two communities. The district has seven elementary schools (grades K-5), two middle schools (grades 6-8), and one high school (grades 9-12). Band begins in grade 6 where students meet for 50 minutes every other day in instrument specific classes. Band students in 7th and 8th grade rehearse for 50 minutes daily.

Band students in high school meet for 50 minutes each day. All band students in grades 9-12 participate in a concert band throughout the entire school year. Students are placed into one of three concert bands (Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, and Concert Band) based on an audition. An auditioned group of students participates in a competitive marching band which rehearses two hours after school four days a week. Students are strongly encouraged to audition for All-District Band and Solo and Small Ensemble Festivals.

Band Staff

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Jennifer Gibson
​Director of Bands - Raymore-Peculiar High School

Jennifer Gibson began her career as a music educator in January 2002 when she joined the Raymore-Peculiar School District. Within the district she has taught both vocal and instrumental music classes. As a vocal music teacher, her Sixth Grade Choir performed at the Missouri Music Educators Association Convention in January 2009. As a band teacher, her groups consistently receive top ratings at area music festivals.
Ms. Gibson studied piano and flute throughout high school and college. She received her Bachelor of Instrumental Music Education from the University of Central Missouri as well as a Master of Instrumental Music Education from VanderCook College of Music in Chicago, Illinois. Currently, she is pursuing her Specialist degree in Superintendency through William Woods University. 

Ms. Gibson's experiences and interests as a musician includes education and advocacy, performance, accompanying and composition. In her spare time she enjoys painting, hiking and spending time with her family. Ms. Gibson is a graduate of Sherwood High School and lives in Garden City, MO with her dog Sissy. Her professional affiliations include MMEA, MENC, MBA, and MSTA.


Email: jennifer.gibson@raypec.org
Phone: 816-892-1428

Dillon Jarrett
Band Director - South Middle School

Dillon Jarrett has been a member of the music faculty in the Raymore-Peculiar School District since 2006. He teaches at South Middle School and assists the high school marching band. Mr. Jarrett earned his Bachelor of Music Education degree from University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, Missouri. While at Central, Mr. Jarrett held many leadership roles and performed in the school's top ensembles. In 2010, Mr. Jarrett completed his Master of Music Education degree from VanderCook College of Music in Chicago, Illinois with an emphasis in instrumental Music. He is currently working toward a Doctor of Musical Arts degree through Boston University.

Throughout his education, Mr. Jarrett has had opportunities to learn from some of the countries best conductors including Craig Kirchhoff, Allan McMurray, and Paula Crider. Mr. Jarrett has served as the District Band Vice President for the West Central Missouri Music Educators Association and holds professional affiliations with The National Association for Music Education, the National Education Association, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Music Fraternity, the Missouri Music Educators Association, and the Missouri Bandmasters Association.

Email: dillon.jarrett@raypec.org
Phone: 816-892-3999

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Graham Deckard
Band Director & Percussion Specialist - High School, 
​South Middle School, & East Middle School

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Zach Shupe
Band Director - East Middle School

Email: zach.shupe@raypec.org
Phone: 816-892-3999 x7405

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