ABILENE, Texas — After more than 11 years of working for Abilene Independent School District, current Fine Arts executive director Jay Lester is set to retire from his role, and he will be replaced by Austin Elementary school principal Clay Johnson.
Johnson's new position was announced Nov. 16 by Abilene ISD superintendent Dr. David Young, who said, "Clay is the right person to lead Abilene ISD's outstanding fine arts program into the future. He brings a wealth of experience and excellence in education to the arts position. I am confident that our fine arts students and staff will continue to have every opportunity to succeed under his leadership."
Previously, Johnson attended the University of Oklahoma, where he received a bachelor's degree in music education. He then went on to earn a music performance master's degree from the University of Michigan.
At the start of his career, Johnson worked with the Cooper Independent School District band for 16 years, where he transitioned from associate director to director.
From there, he became assistant principal at Bowie Elementary and Abilene High School, with bands at his school districts receiving multiple UIL Sweepstakes Awards and TMEA All-State Honor Band selections.
Aside from his time as AISD, Johnson worked at McMurry University as low brass adjunct professor. He also spent time as a music judge, as well as CHS (teacher of the year 2013) fine arts department chair and AHS fine arts liaison.
“I am so thankful for the opportunity to serve Abilene ISD in this role,” Johnson said. “I look forward to promoting our outstanding programs and providing the best opportunities for fine arts students in AISD. Fine arts has been a bright spot in AISD for many years and I am excited to lead this department through its next chapter.”
Lester, who is the current executive director, will go on to work as the Director of Bands for Hardin-Simmons University in January 2024.
As for Johnson, he is grateful for this new career trajectory.
