Today we’d like to introduce you to Renferd Joseph
Hi Renferd, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I began my journey in fine arts education at Fondren Middle School, where I first learned to play snare drum. I continued to develop my musical skills at Jack Yates High School, where I not only marched in the band but also learned to play piano and served as drum section leader for four years.
I then attended Texas Southern University on a full band scholarship, majoring in percussion and serving as the drum line section leader for three years. After graduation, I became the head band director at Dowling Middle School and then I moved up to Worthing High School in Houston ISD. During my teaching career in Houston ISD I was recognized as Teacher of the Year five times over a ten-year period.
My next move took me to Austin, TX, where I served as band director at Decker Middle School before being promoted to campus administrator at Manor Middle School. After leading successfully as a campus administrator, I was then selected as the inaugural Director of Fine Arts for Manor ISD, I led my department to state and national recognition, advocating for a $44 million bond to improve equipment and enhance student programs. I grew each of the programs in the department, making fine arts one of the top performers in the central Texas market.
Now back in Houston, I serve as the inaugural Director of Fine Arts for Alief ISD, where I successfully advocated for a $7.3 million bond to update and modernize equipment across our programs and to expand dance offerings district-wide. My programs have earned local, state, and national acclaim, and in January 2025.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
This journey hasn’t always been smooth, and I’ve faced several challenges along the way. One of the biggest struggles has been continuously advocating for the resources my students need to succeed, often fighting for adequate funding to ensure we have the right equipment and opportunities. Staffing approvals have also been a hurdle, as it’s essential to have the right team in place to meet students’ needs. Educating both educators and administrators on the importance of a well-rounded fine arts education has been a consistent challenge, as well as helping others understand why the arts matter for all students. Despite these struggles, I’ve remained committed to ensuring our students have the best opportunities to thrive.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As the Director of Fine Arts Programs for Alief Independent School District, I oversee a wide range of programs, including elementary music, choir, band, orchestra, visual arts, theatre arts, speech, debate, journalism, cheer, dance, and JROTC. I am most known for being a passionate and innovative leader in the arts, someone who inspires, motivates, and drives success within the programs I lead.
I’m particularly proud of the continuous success our department has achieved, including earning six consecutive state distinctions from the Texas Art Educators Association (TAEA) and being named a District of Distinction—a recognition where we are 1 of 16 districts in Texas who has received this six times in a row. Additionally, our department has received the NAMM Foundation’s Best Communities for Music Education national distinction for two consecutive years, further solidifying our commitment to excellence. Most recently, I was honored with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for my ongoing contributions to the Arts.
What sets me apart is my relentless drive for results and excellence. I am a self-starter, charismatic, and adaptable, consistently finding ways to lead and succeed in situations that many might not believe are possible. My passion for arts education and my ability to transform challenges into opportunities for success truly define my approach and impact.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
When it comes to finding a mentor, my advice is to seek out individuals who are honest, have a proven track record of success, and continue to make a meaningful impact. A good mentor should be relevant to your field and someone who can nurture your growth, challenge you, and hold you accountable, especially when you’re faced with difficult situations. It’s important to find someone who will not only guide you but also push you to be your best.
For networking, I always say find like-minded people who share your mission and values. Surround yourself with those who will cheer you on, especially when others might not. You want to protect the integrity of your work and your image, as they are what people will remember about you long after you’ve gone. Leave a lasting impact of success on others and create something that hasn’t been done yet.
What has worked well for me is leading with a culture of excellence, something I instill in everything I do. I stay reflective as a leader, maintaining a growth mindset and always looking for opportunities in every situation. I commit to learning every day, and the people I learn from are just as important as the lessons themselves. Always be open to growth and never stop seeking out ways to improve.
Contact Info:
- LinkedIn: Renferd Joseph
- Twitter: @RenferdJoseph
Image Credits
Mike Alvarez – credit on the alief photos, the photo with the black background with the red tie as well
