5 GPS Music Programs Earn Prestigious State ABODA Awards, Recognized at GPS Governing Board Meeting

Five Gilbert Public Schools music programs across four campuses were recognized at the GPS Governing Board meeting on September 29 for earning top honors from the Arizona Band and Orchestra Directors Association (ABODA). The Highland High School Orchestra Program, Highland High School Band Program, Campo Verde High School Orchestra Program, Highland Junior High School Music Program, and South Valley Junior High School Music Program were each awarded the William E. Richardson and Dennis W. Smith "Program of Distinction" Award.

To receive a Program of Distinction Award, students across each program must achieve superior ratings at regional and state festivals, participate in solo and ensemble events, and qualify for regional and all-state honor groups. High school programs are evaluated across multiple disciplines and require top marks across concert ensembles, jazz programs, and competitive marching bands.
This year, eight Program of Distinction Awards were awarded to schools statewide, five of them to GPS schools.

"We're a little spoiled in Gilbert. These awards are highly, highly prestigious,’ said Dr. Jared Ryan, Superintendent of Gilbert Public Schools. “We benefit from just being able to watch and appreciate your performances, but I know there’s so much behind the scenes that you do to perform at this level. Thank you all so much for your leadership.”

GPS music, orchestra, and band directors work closely across grade levels to build continuous support systems from elementary music classes through junior high and high school ensembles. Music, band, and orchestra directors across all grade levels work together to ensure students are equipped with foundational techniques that establish smooth transitions and sustained excellence as students advance into higher programs.

“These awards just kind of show off the work we do all the way from elementary to high school,” added Craig Ghormley, Orchestra Director at Highland High. “There is a lot that gets evaluated in these awards, so it’s really a lot of smaller student efforts that combine into this one big award.”

Statewide ABODA Honorees

• Highland High School Orchestra Program: Directors Amy Bennett and Craig Ghormley.
• Highland High School Band Program: Directors Kevin Bennett and Jenn Bock (one of only three high school band programs recognized statewide).
• Campo Verde High School Orchestra Program: Director Crystal Payne.
• Highland Junior High School Music Program: Directors Lisa Ballard and Amy Bennett (one of only eight junior high programs recognized statewide).
• South Valley Junior High School Music Program: Directors Linda Levy and Jack Bannon (one of only eight junior high programs recognized statewide).

These recognitions highlight the care and dedication GPS music directors bring to their ensembles every day to help students succeed. Learn more about music education and performing arts programs at GilbertSchools.net/Student-Life.