Olathe East Band Staff
Rebecca Fillingham - Director of Bands
Rebecca Fillingham joined the Olathe East band staff in 2023 having previously taught in the Shawnee Mission School District, the Monett school district, and the West Platte School District.
She teaches the Orange and Blue Brigade, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, and Concert Band, as well as traveling to area elementary schools to co-teach 5th grade beginning bands.
Over the course of her career, Ms. Fillingham has instructed at all levels, teaching and conducting groups ranging from 5th grade beginners to university wind ensembles and chamber groups. High school bands under her direction have earned numerous “I” ratings at the Kansas and Missouri State Band Festivals, and top placements in area marching competitions. However, her greatest joy in teaching band is fostering meaningful connections with her students and sharing a love of music and the band community with any kid that shows up willing to try.
Rebecca graduated from Olathe East High School, going on to earn her Bachelor of Music Education degree at Missouri State University, and her Master of Arts in Instrumental Conducting from the University of Central Missouri—under the mentorship of Dr. Scott Lubaroff.
Ms. Fillingham enjoys biking, running, and anything sci-fi. She resides in Kansas City, Missouri with her husband, Matt, who is an accomplished trombonist in the Kansas City music scene, and their three sons: Josiah, Robbie, and Kai.
Chad Reed - Associate Director of Bands
Before his appointment as Associate Band Director at Olathe East high school, Chad Reed was the Director of Bands at Shawnee Mission North High School from 2001-2024. He started his tenure at North as associate band director, 1999 through 2001.
Mr. Reed received his Bachelor of Music Education from Southwest Baptist University. He studied privately with Dr. William Brown, Dean of Fine Arts. He graduated with honors and received the “Overall Outstanding Music Graduate” award in 1991. In 1998, Mr. Reed completed his Master of Music degree from Southern Illinois University- Carbondale where he graduated with honors and served as a graduate assistant for 2 years.
In 2011, Mr. Reed was SM North’s recipient for the “Caring Heart” award. In February of 2020, he was recognized with the KSHSAA “Heart of the Arts” award. SMSD KSHSAA Heart of the Arts Story. In addition to SM North’s Symphonic ensembles receiving multiple Superior ratings, and his marching bands securing consistent finalist appearances at UCM’s Festival of Champions, the SM North Jazz Ensemble performed at the KMEA state music convention in 2019 and 2024. Mr. Reed has served as the conductor of the KCMTA multi-piano festival for the past 6 years.
Mr. Reed is married to Leeann Reed; they have three children and one grandchild. Outside of his love for music, he enjoys traveling, cycling, cooking, and spending quality time with his family.
Brandon Graves- Percussion Instructor
Kimberlyn Angelo- Percussion Instructor