Band

Bruce White joined Florence High School as the Director of Bands in 2021, bringing with him over three decades of experience from Mississippi and Tennessee. A graduate of Northwest Mississippi Junior College and Mississippi State University, Mr. White has a distinguished career of revitalizing band programs. At Scott Central Attendance Center, he increased student participation in the band program by almost 70% and achieved the band's first Superior ratings in over ten years, a trend he continued at New Hope, where the band thrived under his leadership, increasing in participation by over 60% and attending it's first national festival where they won Best in Class awards in concert and winter guard, and Swept the overall awards in the parade competition. His success at Saltillo High School further cemented his reputation, culminating in multiple awards, including the 2015 George Henry Shultz Outstanding Band Director award presented by the Northeast Mississippi Band Director's Association.

After exploring middle school teaching in Tennessee, Mr. White returned to his passion for competitive band leadership at Florence High School. Since 2021, he has maintained the school's tradition of excellence, guiding the band to numerous accolades, including the Grand Champion award at the Coldwater Classic in 2023. His dedication to music education has inspired countless students, with nearly forty of his former students pursuing music degrees and careers. Now in year 41, his impact on the students in the Florence band program continues to be profound, fostering a love for music among students and achieving remarkable success in competitions.  Mr. White has served as President of both the East Mississippi Band Director’s Association and the Northeast Mississippi Band Director’s Association, has been selected to Outstanding Young Men of America, and Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers four times.

Mr. Belote has faithfully served Florence City Schools since 2010 and, as of 2026, is in his 18th year as a public school educator. Russell holds a Bachelor of Science in Music (Instrumental P-12), Master of Arts in Education, and an Educational Specialist degree from the University of North Alabama.  Giving back to Florence, supporting this community via performance, and building leadership through musical achievement drives his continued efforts in FCS. 

At Florence High School, Mr. Belote has served as assistant Band Director, percussion instructor/arranger for the Big Blue Marching Band, and conducts all iterations of percussion ensemble. Go Falcons!

Mr. Jay serves as the Band Director at Florence Middle School and also directs the Florence High School Jazz Band. In addition, he serves as an assistant band director at Florence High School alongside Mr. Belote and Mr. White. A native of Panama City, Florida, he is a graduate of Rutherford High School and earned both his Bachelor of Science in Music Education and Master of Arts in Education from the University of North Alabama.

While at UNA, Mr. Jay was involved in a wide range of ensembles, including jazz, marching, wind, symphonic, orchestral, and chamber groups—experiences that continue to shape his student-focused approach to teaching. He remains active as a performer in the Shoals Area, which allows him to model lifelong musicianship for his students.

Mr. Jay has taught in Florence City Schools since 2015 and is committed to creating a supportive, challenging, and inclusive band program where students can grow musically and personally. Under his direction, students are given frequent opportunities to perform, collaborate, and experience success through festivals, assessments, and community events. He is an active member of professional music education organizations and values continued learning in order to better serve his students and the Florence community.