Wylie ISD Names Experienced Leader to Direct Pride of the East

Wylie ISD is proud to introduce Holly Taylor as the new Director of Bands at Wylie East High School, following the upcoming retirement of longtime director Greg Hayes at the end of the school year. After an extensive search, the district is confident that Taylor’s experience, leadership, and student-centered approach make her the perfect fit to carry forward the proud tradition of the Pride of the East.

“It was going to take a truly special opportunity for me to leave Sachse, a place that has meant so much to me both personally and professionally,” Taylor said. “Wylie East is that opportunity. There is a strong history and tradition of excellence here, and the fact that it’s in the community where I live makes it even more meaningful. I’m grateful for my time at Sachse and excited to begin this new chapter with Raider Nation.”

Taylor brings a wealth of experience and success to Wylie East. Since 2014, she has served as Director of Bands at Sachse High School in Garland ISD, where her ensembles consistently earned top honors, including Mark of Excellence Commended recognitions in 2021, 2022, and 2024, and a National Winner title in 2023. Under her leadership, the Sachse marching band advanced to the UIL State Marching Band Contest in both 2021 and 2024.

“I’m thrilled to lead the Pride of the East and to work alongside the very talented assistant directors already in place,” she said. “There is so much passion, skill, and dedication among this team of music educators, and I can’t wait to collaborate with them as we continue to build something special.”

Prior to her time at Sachse, Taylor served as the Assistant Band Director and Color Guard Director at Lakeview Centennial High School for seven years. She also taught band at Naaman Forest High School, and Webb Middle School and instructed color guards at Waxahachie, Midlothian, and Pampa High Schools. In addition to her campus leadership, Taylor serves as the TMEA Region 3 Band Chair, overseeing regional band events, managing budgets, and organizing high school auditions.

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Mrs. Holly Taylor to Wylie East High School as the new Director of Bands,” Executive Director of Fine Arts Glenn Lambert said. “Mrs. Taylor is a true team player who consistently puts students, colleagues, and the shared vision above all else. I’ve known of her work for years and have always admired the excellence, consistency, and integrity she brings as a leader. Wylie East is gaining not only an accomplished music educator but a thoughtful and collaborative leader who will help take the Pride of the East to even greater heights.”

Taylor holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. She and her family proudly call Wylie home, where their children attend Wylie ISD schools. Her husband, Daniel, is also a dedicated band director in the district.