Meet the Directors

Mrs. Jennifer Sewell

Mrs. Sewell is entering her 12th year at Bells ISD, where she continues to share her passion for music education. Prior to joining Bells, she spent five years as the Band Director at Lamesa Middle School in Lamesa, Texas.

In December 2023, Mrs. Sewell earned her National Board Certification, a mark of distinction in the teaching profession. She also holds a Master’s Degree in Education Administration from Texas A&M University–Commerce.

A proud native of Denison, Texas, Mrs. Sewell graduated from Denison High School in 2005. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Music Education, graduating Cum Laude from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in May 2009.

Mrs. Sewell and her husband, Dustin, have been happily married for 16 years. Together, they are the proud parents of three children: Lily (10), Olivia (8), and Marshall (5).

Mr. Cavender serves as the Band Director at Pritchard Junior High and Assistant Band Director at Bells High School. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Texas Tech University, where he performed as a percussionist with a variety of ensembles, including the Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble, Afro-Samba Ensemble, and the Goin’ Band from Raiderland. He also performed on euphonium with the Texas Tech University Band.

In addition to his collegiate experience, Mr. Cavender has an extensive background in drum corps—a highly competitive, nationwide marching arts activity that combines advanced musical performance with precision marching and choreography. He traveled across the country performing as a snare drummer with several corps, including Compass, Louisiana Stars, and the Blue Knights. In the summer of 2025, he will serve as a snare drum instructor for Arsenal Drum and Bugle Corps based in El Paso, TX.

Before joining Bells ISD, Mr. Cavender taught at multiple schools across West Texas and the Dallas–Fort Worth area. Most recently, he worked as a freelance percussion specialist and private lesson instructor for the Melissa, Van Alstyne, and Denison band programs.

Mr. Cavender is excited to join the Bells ISD band staff and looks forward to an exciting and rewarding first year with the program.