Meet the Staff

Mr. Craige Phipps - Director of Bands

Mr. Phipps is a 2001 graduate of St. Joseph's College in Rensselaer, Indiana with a Degree in Music Education.  Before coming to Knox High School Mr. Phipps taught for 2 years at Griffith High School in Griffith, Indiana.  During his tenure at Knox the Instrumental Music and Dance Department has grown to include a wide variety of musical offerings for students to expand their knowledge and understanding of music.  Mr. Phipps has overseen the growth of the extra-curricular music program to include  winter drumline and winter guard, both of which are award winning programs.  Both the high school and middle school concert bands consistently receive top ratings a Organizational Contest.  In his spare time Mr. Phipps loves spending time with his wife Catherine and children, Garin, Arabella, and William.  He loves fishing, racing and traveling.  Mr. Phipps philosophy for his students is "I hope to instil and love for music that lasts a student's lifetime, but moreso, I pray that the lessons I teach help to create good people."

Mr. Andy Rice - Percussion Director/Sound Engineer

Andy is a 2008 Graduate of Knox High School.  He began his tenure as a percussion tech where he honed his teaching skills.  Andy assumed the reins of the Knox Percussion Ensemble in 2010.  Under his leadership the Winter Drumline is a 7 time State Finalist and has grown to include nearly 50 students.  In addition, he has become a member of the Indiana Percussion Association board and is regularly consulted by schools throughout the state for his understanding of sound engineering.  In his free time Andy enjoys technology, regularly performs with his band, and is an avid bowler.

Ms. Coley Clark - Guard Director

Coley is a 2014 graduate of Knox Community High School.  Beginning as a guard assistant Coley worked for the band for 4 years before assuming the role of Director in 2018.  She is a 2018 graduate of Holy Cross College with a degree in Special Education.  Coley works at Knox Elementary as a Special Education teacher.

Ms. Kate Radelja  - Guard Assistant

Kate is a 2019 Graduate of Knox Community High School.  Kate has an extensive background in Dance and has expertly brought that to enhance the ability of our students.  Kate is an integral part of our design team.

Mr. Jacob Keen  - Brass Technician

Jacob is a 2021 graduate of Knox High School, currently studying music education at Valparaiso University. During high school, he was a three-time member of the Indiana Bandmasters Association All-State Band. He has also performed with many different ensembles including the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra, the LaPorte City Band, and the Michigan City Municipal Band. Jacob is also a member of the 2023 Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Corps, an experience that will extend his knowledge of the marching arts and overall musicianship. His love for music stems from the idea that it allows him to express himself while connecting with others. Jacob hopes to cultivate, for his current and future students, a space in which they can express themselves through music. In his free time, he enjoys playing video games and spending time with his dogs.