Jake Thompson Named Director of Bands at Colquitt County High School
At the regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting held on Monday, April 28, the Colquitt County Board of Education approved Mr. Jake Thompson as the new Director of Bands at Colquitt County High School.
Mr. Thompson brings a wealth of experience and a strong history of success to the position. He previously served as Assistant Band Director at Colquitt County High School from July 2013 to June 2020 before accepting the role of Director of Bands at Tift County High School, where he has served since July 2020.
During his tenure at Tift County, Mr. Thompson demonstrated exceptional leadership and program development. Under his direction:
- The marching band grew from 40 to over 100 winds and percussion members in just two years.
- Bands under his leadership grew each year, not only in size but also in quality.
- His bands consistently received Superior Ratings at Marching Competitions and State Performance Evaluations.
- His students achieved individual success, earning placements annually in District Honor Band, All-State Band, and participating in Solo and Ensemble performances.
- Both Symphonic and Marching Bands performed at high-profile venues including Universal Studios, Disney Theme Park, and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City.
- The program consistently achieved Superior Ratings every year at LGPE Concert Festival and at every marching competition attended.
Reflecting on the opportunity, Mr. Thompson shared, “I am truly excited, humbled, and blessed for the opportunity to lead the Band program in Colquitt County. This is a place where I began my teaching career and experienced so much growth, both personally and professionally. Returning now feels like a full-circle moment, and I’m excited about what the future holds for our students, the program, and the community. The Colquitt County Bands have already established a legacy of excellence, and I am excited to build on that foundation and take our students and program to even greater heights.”
Colquitt County High School Principal Dr. Chris Merritt expressed his enthusiasm about Thompson’s return: "We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Thompson back to Colquitt County High School as our Director of Bands. His passion for music education, track record of excellence, and deep roots in our community make him the perfect leader to carry forward the proud tradition of the 50th Regiment Band. I am confident that under his leadership, our students will not only grow as musicians but most importantly as young adults. We look forward to the energy, vision, and commitment he brings to our program."
Mr. Thompson and his family are no strangers to Colquitt County. His wife, Celia Thompson, teaches Art at Norman Park Elementary School, and their daughter, Ila Jane, is also a student at Norman Park Elementary.
Colquitt County High School is proud to welcome Mr. Thompson back home as he leads the Packer Band into a bright and promising future.