Ponder ISD is proud to announce that Jesse Woolery, current Director of Bands, has been named the district’s new Coordinator of Fine Arts. Woolery assumes this role following a year of historic achievements for the Ponder Lion Band and the fine arts programs he has helped elevate.
This past week, under Woolery’s leadership, the Ponder Bands earned straight Division I ratings in both Concert and Sight-Reading at UIL, securing the highly coveted UIL Band Sweepstakes Award. This distinction, awarded only to programs that receive Division I ratings in marching, concert, and sight-reading, reflects consistent excellence across the full spectrum of performance assessment. Earlier this year, the Ponder Lion Band also made its first-ever marching contest finals appearance and advanced to the UIL Area Marching Championships, marking a milestone season for the program.
Woolery joined Ponder ISD after 22 years in public school music education, including 18 years as Associate Director of Bands at Denton High School. Since arriving in Ponder, he has played a central role in expanding opportunities for students, strengthening program culture, and advancing the district’s commitment to high-quality fine arts education.
A respected band director, jazz educator, and statewide clinician, Woolery brings a deep well of experience to his new leadership position. His background includes founding and co-founding multiple educational jazz festivals, directing nationally recognized jazz ensembles, and receiving numerous professional honors for teaching excellence and service to the arts.
As Coordinator of Fine Arts, Woolery will support all district fine arts programs including band, choir, theater, and visual arts. As Ponder ISD continues to grow opportunities for creative expression and student achievement.
Woolery holds degrees in music education from the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University. Outside the classroom, he is widely recognized in the marching arts community and served as the longtime “Voice of the UNT Green Brigade.”
Congratulations to Mr. Woolery and we look forward to the continued success and growth of fine arts under his leadership.