AIRLINE VIKING BAND STAFF

Joel Burris, is a dedicated educator celebrating 19 years of service within the Bossier Parish School system. Mr. Burris took over as Director of Bands in January 2026 for the Vikings. A proud Haughton High alumnus (Class of 1998), Mr. Burris has spent the last 17 years building a thriving percussion program for the Buccaneers as the Asst. Director of Bands and Director of Percussion. Prior to that, he spent two years as the Director of Bands at Bossier High School.

Mr. Burris earned his Bachelor of Music Education degree from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, where he studied under the esteemed Kenneth H. Green and William E. (Bill) Brent. The excellence and innovative spirit demonstrated by his students are a direct result of his foundational musicianship and instructional methods, which are a cornerstone to a successful band program.

Beyond the band hall, Mr. Burris is a deeply involved member of his community. He and his wife, Jennifer, are the proud parents of two daughters, Audrey and Kelsey. Joel enjoys spending his free time working on his sports car and entering car shows, traveling with his family, and cooking. He is also an active partner of The Simple Church where he serves every Sunday with his church family.