Chad Gayso Unexpectedly Steps Down as Jasper HS Band Director

After serving as Jasper High School’s Director of Bands since 2019, Chad Gayso has made the unexpected announcement that he will be leaving the program. While his new employment decision is unknown, he has indicated that he will not be accepting a new teaching position. Gayso broke the news to his students Friday afternoon, and shared an email to families immediately afterward: 

“I wanted to take a moment to share some important news that I just discussed with the students. After much thought, I have decided to accept a new opportunity outside of education that will begin after the new year. This will be my last semester as the band director at Jasper High School. 

I’ve taken some time to reflect on what my family and I need in this next stage of life. This opportunity feels like the right next step and will present new possibilities while also allowing me to be more present at home. 
 

Please know how deeply I appreciate and treasure the memories made through teaching and making music with your students. Jasper has truly been a wonderful and supportive place to teach. I am incredibly grateful for the trust and encouragement you have shown me throughout my time here. 

I want to assure you that I remain fully committed to the students during the remaining time we have together. All plans, events, and responsibilities for the program will continue as scheduled. The administration will soon begin the process of selecting the next director, and I will do everything I can to support a smooth and successful transition. Thank you again for the privilege of working with your incredible students. It has been an honor to be part of their journey.” 

Prior to his tenure with the Wildcats, Gayso was the Director of Bands at Forest Park for 15 years. Having led the Marching Rangers to six ISSMA state championships, he brought Jasper their first state ISSMA win in ten years in 2022. His predecessor, James Goodhue, led the successful program for 26 years before retiring in 2019. Chad Gayso has been at the helm since that time and will exit the program at the end of this calendar year. It is unknown at this time who will be considered to fill the newly vacant position.