Benjamin Katz

Mr. Katz has worked as a music educator for the past 15 years, serving most recently as the Head Band Director at Clark Middle School.  Under his direction, the Clark Middle School Symphonic Band has earned straight Superior Ratings at the past four UIL Band Concert and Sightreading Contests, as well as finishing first in the Area Band Contest and fourth overall in the State Honor Band Contest in 2009.  The is the highest ranking in school history.  The Symphonic Band has won the Most Outstanding Band of the Day, Best in Class, and straight Superior Ratings at the Murchison Band Contests for the past four years.  This past year, the Clark Band had 45 students make the All-Region Band.  The most in school history.  OVer the past four years, enrollment in the band has doubled to over 330 students, currently.

As an associate director, the Clark Concert I Band earned a Sweepstakes Award at the UIL Band Concert and Sightreading Contest earning straight superior ratings, as well as the Best in Class, at the Springfest Band competition. 

Previously, Mr. Katz served as the Head Band Director at James Madison Middle School in Titusville, Florida. Under his direction, student enrollment increased by 110%. The student consistently received Superior Ratings at band contests, earned 160 Superior Ratings at Solo & Ensemble Contest, 36 All-County chair placements, and one All-State chair.  Prior to teaching in Florida, Mr. Katz worked, in Texas, as an assistant band director at Arlington Martin HS, Waco HS, and Bellville ISD.  Mr. Katz graduated from Baylor University with a Music Education degree. He is a clarinet player and is married to Angie, a former band director!  Mr. Katz directs the Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, Chamber Winds, as well as two beginning clarinet classes, a flute class, and a beginning saxophone class.

Jessica Powell

Jessica Powell is thrilled to begin her career at Clark Middle School.  As a four year all-stater and having graduated valedictorian from Churchhill High School in San Antonio , Ms. Powell went on to study euphonium with Dr. Brian Bowman at the University of North Texas.  Ms. Powell received degrees in both Music Education and Instrumental Performance.  While at UNT, Ms. Powell was named a finalist in multiple international euphonium competitions.  In addition, Ms. Powell performed in a variety of UNT’s ensembles including the Green Brigade Marching Band and the Wind Symphony with conductor Mr. Eugene Corporon.  In her free time, she enjoys cooking, being outdoors, and playing with her dog, Roxy.  Ms. Powell is responsible for the Clark Concert Band and instructing the beginning trombone, euphonium, and tuba class.