Bartlett City Schools
Angela Sanders, band director at Appling Middle School, has been selected to march in the internationally renowned Pasadena Rose Parade on January 1, 2026. Sanders will perform alongside more than 300 band directors from across North America as part of Saluting America’s Band Directors, a prestigious ensemble honoring music educators nationwide.
The group will accompany a colorful, animated float along the 5.5-mile parade route. This year’s theme, “America’s Band Directors: We Teach Music. We Teach Life,” recognizes the profound impact band directors have made through their dedication to music education and student mentorship. Collectively, the educators in the ensemble have taught and inspired hundreds of thousands of students throughout their careers.
Sanders expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “I am thrilled and humbled to represent Appling Middle School, Bartlett, and the state of Tennessee on this national stage,” she said. “Being part of a group so committed to championing music education is truly meaningful.” Sanders previously marched with the organization in the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and noted that the Rose Parade experience will be especially meaningful as she will march alongside former student and Bartlett High School alumnus Jared Ford, now band director at Siegel Middle School in Murfreesboro, Tennessee…