Dear Students and Families,

Welcome to the 2026-2027 school year! I am so glad that you have chosen to continue on your journey with the HMS Band. My name is Ms. Wendland, and I am so excited to meet and work with each of you. I have already heard great things about you and your progress as an ensemble, and I am excited to join you in this positive trajectory! 

I look forward to our time together this school year! If you have any questions or concerns regarding the upcoming year, please reach out. I am happy to answer any questions you may have!

About Me:

I was born and raised in Waterloo, IA; I grew up with one younger brother and two incredibly supportive parents. I've played flute since I was in the second grade, and have always adored teaching and music. Last May, I graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Northern Iowa with my Bachelor of Music in Music Education. 

I love all things marching band (and band in general), and was a drum major for the Panther Marching Band at UNI! I enjoy ballroom and swing dancing, and spent 2.5 years as president of UNI Ballroom/Swing. During high school, I was on the varsity swim team. All that to say, I know what it's like to be busy! I'm excited to support students as they learn how to manage full schedules, and encourage them that they can, in fact, do it all. 

During my time at UNI, I was honored to receive multiple awards, including the Panther Marching Band Anna Williams Award, the Sigma Alpha Iota Sword of Honor, and the Kappa Kappa Psi Dr. Robert Dean Award, among others. I am a Presser Scholar and am dedicated to pursuing excellence in music education.