Directors & Staff

From Left to Right: Valorie Mills, Aaron Mills, former Director Matthew Chapman, Thomas Cassidy, Delaney Lawson
Under the Grey Ghost in 2025

Valorie Mills | Director of Bands | IVC High School

Education:

I graduated from Western Illinois University in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in Music Education. I studied for my master’s degree at American Band College through Southern Oregon University in 2006-2007.

Experience:

I student taught in 2002 at Mossville and IVC schools. In 2004-2006 I taught K-5th grade general music, 5-12th grade bands, and 6-12th grade choir in LaMoille, IL. In 2006-2009 I taught 4-8th grade orchestra and 5-8th grade bands in the East Peoria school district. During the time I was not teaching in the public schools I became certified as a Kindermusik instructor, taught private lessons at home, and also had a studio at Kidder Music where I taught private lessons to flute and saxophone players of all ages. In 2016-2019 I taught K-5th grade general music, 5-8th grade bands, and 6-8th grade choir at Hollis Grade school in Bartonville while also assisting with the LCHS marching band program.

About Mrs. Mills:

My husband Aaron and I have lived in Chillicothe together since 2006. We have two boys Dylon and Logyn, a girl Jaydn, and I have a stepson Ajay. My time outside of school is spent with my family, outdoors as I love nature, playing sudoku, reading, and doing something crafty. We currently have two dogs named Pumpkin and Smith, two guinea pigs named Emma and Willow, four ducks, and eight chickens. I absolutely adore chickens! I love to have fun and make people laugh. I tell horrible dad jokes that I think are hilarious!

E-mail: vmills@ivcschools.com

Christopher Regiacorte | Director of Bands | Chillicothe Junior High (CEC)

Education:

I graduated from Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois, with a Bachelor's degree in Music Education.

Experience:

During college, I was fortunate to start my own private lesson studio, which grew to more than 10 students. I also served on the marching band staff at Galesburg High School and South Lake High School. In addition, I have also had the opportunity to work with several jazz programs throughout the region as a guest director, including ROWVA, Morton, Galesburg, and the Youth Music Illinois Jazz Ensemble. I am currently entering my fourth year as a member of the brass staff with the Spartans Drum and Bugle Corps. Before joining the instructional staff, I marched drum corps from 2016 through 2019, aging out at the end of the 2019 season. Those experiences helped shape both my musicianship and my approach to teaching. I completed my student teaching at Morton High School during the fall of 2025. Following my student teaching experience, I accepted the position of Director of Bands for grades 6–12 at Abingdon-Avon Schools. As a performer, I have performed with ensembles including the Knox-Galesburg Symphony Orchestra and the Cherry Street Combo, performing regularly in Galesburg and creating/recording an original album. I have also performed with numerous community bands and had the privilege of performing at the Jazz Education Network (JEN) Conference.

About Mr. Regiacorte:

I grew up in Groveland, Florida, a town in Central Florida, and attended South Lake High School. One of my favorite fun facts to share is that I did not join band until eighth grade. I started on clarinet after losing a bet, and the rest is history. Outside of music, I grew up playing soccer and football, though I was always a band kid at heart. As a Florida native, I enjoy warm weather, surfing, and spending time at theme parks. I am also an avid gamer and lover of any dog! I am excited to share my passion for music with students and help them grow as musicians, leaders, and people!

E-mail: cregiacorte@ivcschools.com

Thomas Cassidy | Assistant Director of Bands | Mossville School

Education:

Bachelor of Music Education - Illinois Wesleyan University: 2018-2022

Experience:

Illinois Valley Central School District: 2022 - present

About Mr. Cassidy:

I am originally from Naperville, Illinois and attended Waubonsie Valley High School in Aurora, IL. I received my Bachelors in Music Education from Illinois Wesleyan University located in Bloomington, IL. I am also a member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia National Music Fraternity. After graduating from college, I began my teaching career at Mossville School in Chillicothe, IL as the 3-5 General Music teacher, and 5-8 Band Director. My favorite part of working in IVC District #321 is getting the opportunity to create positive experiences with the awesome students I get to work with every day!

Email: tcassidy@ivcschools.com