Directors - Jackson

Mr. Koppel grew up in Pittsburgh PA and is a 1993 graduate of University of Dayton. At UD Mr. Koppel served as Fraternal Education Officer and President of the University Chapter of Phi Mu Alpha Professional Mens Music Fraternity. Mr. Koppel was the 1993 University Concerto Competition Winner and was Field Commander of the 'Pride of Dayton' Marching Band. 

Mr. Koppel's first teaching position was teaching 5-12 bands at Colonel Crawford schools in rural, North Robinson, OH. After getting married and moving to the Chicago-area in 1996, Mr. Koppel taught beginning band in Grayslake IL. 

Mr. Koppel has been the Director of Bands at Jackson Middle School since 1998. He directs the Jackson Area Preparatory and Intermediate Bands, the Jackson Concert and Symphonic Bands, and the Jackson Jazz Lab. Under his direction, the Jackson Symphonic Band has consistently earned Division I ratings at District and State Level Contests. In 2012 the Jackson Symphonic Band was chosen to perform at the prestigious University of Illinois SuperState Band Festival and in 2015 was designated ‘Honors’ Status at IGSMA State Contest. 

Mr. Koppel completed his Masters in Music Education from VanderCook College of Music in 2001 and Type 75 Administrative Certification from North Central College in 2008. He has served in several leadership roles in District 45 including Music Department Chairperson and Fine and Practical Arts Team Leader. Mr. Koppel has served as a mentor teacher in District 45, IGSMA Mentor Program, and hosted nearly a dozen student teachers in his tenure. He often facilitates and adjudicates Solo and Ensemble and Organizational Contests in the Chicago-area and currently has serves as the IGSMA District VII CoChair. 

Ms. Vickers began her formal musical training at a young age, starting her string education at the age of two under the guidance of Stan Smith at Aurora Suzuki Violins. In high school, she transitioned to playing the viola and studied under Danny Seidenberg. She pursued her passion for music at Elmhurst University, where she obtained her bachelor's degree in Music Education and studied viola under Ai Melby. In 2020, Ms. Vickers graduated and started her career in education at District U46. This fall will be Ms. Vickers second year in D45!

Aside from her teaching responsibilities, Allison is an accomplished musician who has performed with esteemed groups such as the Chicago Sinfonietta and the Elgin Symphony, and along soloists such as Itzahk Perlman and Rachel Barton Pine. She continues to explore her love for music as a member of the Elmhurst University Philharmonic. In her free time, Allison enjoys engaging in hobbies such as crafts, cooking, and traveling with her family and orchestra friends.