STAFF

Meet Our Director and Staff

At the heart of the Spirit of Jupiter Marching Band is Mr. Ross, a dedicated educator whose passion for music and commitment to student success have transformed our program into one of the best in the state. Under his leadership, our band has earned top honors and created unforgettable memories for all involved.

Joining Mr. Ross is a team of talented and experienced staff members, each bringing their expertise to help every student reach their full potential. Together, they are committed to fostering an environment of excellence, teamwork, and pride in everything the JHS band program achieves.

Mr. Ryan Ross, Director of Bands

Mr. Ross has been an instrumental force in transforming Jupiter High School’s music program. Under his leadership, band participation has grown from 60 to over 150 students, and the program has consistently achieved top honors in both marching and concert band performances.

Program Achievements

Marching Band: Led the Spirit of Jupiter to the FMBC State Championship title (2021), with additional top-three finishes in 2022, 2023 (3rd place), and 2024 (2nd place).
Concert Band: Earned straight superior ratings at the State Concert MPA (2021, 2022, 2023, and aiming for 2024!).
Jupiter Wind Symphony: Achieved straight superior ratings at State MPA (2024) and received the prestigious Otto Kraushaar Award.
General Band Recognition: Named Best Band in Palm Beach County (2021) by the Associated Press.

Teaching Excellence & Recognition

Palm Beach County “Passion for Teaching” Award (2018).
“My Teacher, My Hero” Passion for Teaching Award (2019).
District-approved Clinical Educator for training future music educators.
Active member of the Florida Music Educators Association, Florida Bandmasters Association, and Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity.

Education & Musical Background

Originally from Chester, New York, Mr. Ross earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Florida Atlantic University (2013) and a Master’s Degree in Music Education from the University of Florida (2019).

During his time at FAU, he was an active performer in the Wind Ensemble, Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble, and the FAU Marching Owls. He studied under Dr. Kyle Prescott (conducting) and Warren Gallic, Jeff Kraus, Tony Lavender, Neel Shukla, and Benjamin Charles (percussion). His graduate studies at UF focused on the theory, philosophy, and fundamentals of music education, with a deep dive into music theory, world music, and popular music.

With a passion for inspiring students and a relentless commitment to excellence, Mr. Ross continues to shape Jupiter High School’s music program into one of the best in the state.