Hays CISD Names New Lobo Director Of Bands

Hays Consolidated Independent School District (Hays CISD) Superintendent Dr. Eric Wright announced the selection of Nathan Smith as the director of bands for Lehman High School, beginning with the 2020-2021 school year.

The Hays CISD Board of Trustees approved Smith’s selection at its May 18, 2020, regular meeting.

“Nate is a talented and award-winning band instructor and leader who will continue the great Lobo music tradition,” said Superintendent Dr. Eric Wright. “He knows our students and has been a part of the Hays CISD family for a decade.”

“Mr. Smith has a strong work ethic and is equally dedicated to our students and families. I am more than confident he will elevate our LHS band to new heights,” said Lehman Principal Karen Zuniga.

Smith, who is the current headband director at Chapa Middle School in Hays CISD, has 10 years of experience developing young musicians.

Prior to becoming the head band director at Chapa in 2013, he served as the school’s assistant director.

“As an educator, I believe that all students can learn, but that no significant learning can occur without a significant relationship. Teaching band has afforded me the opportunity to build a long-term rapport with my students over several years, even extending to the current students enrolled at Lehman High School as I remain involved in the Marching Band program in the Fall,” said Smith. “I believe any student can achieve great successes in life when they are held to high expectations, are provided with an environment that is safe and encouraging, and have a strong mentor that they trust and respect to serve as a guide and supporter along the way.”

Smith led the Chapa Wind Ensemble to it’s sixth consecutive UIL “Sweepstakes” honor last year.

In 2018, he was nominated for a statewide H-E-B Excellence in Education Rising Star Award, and in 2015 was selected as the Chapa Middle School Teacher of the Year.

During his time at Chapa, he has helped grow the band to record numbers of student participation.

He has also helped the students earn many awards – often the first in the school’s history – such as the first UIL “Superior” rating by both concert ensembles in 2012 and the first UIL “Straight 1’s” rating by both concert ensembles in 2014.

Smith holds a Bachelor of Music from Texas State University and expects to complete his master’s degree in educational leadership from Lamar University in 2021.

He is a member of the Texas Music Educators Association, serving as the Region 18 Band Division Chair; the Texas Bandmasters Association; the International Tuba and Euphonium Association; Alpha Chi Honor Society; Pi Kappa Lambda Music Honor Society; Golden Key Honor Society; and Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Fraternity for College Bands.