Mesquite ISD

Mesquite ISD will take center stage this New Year’s Day as Horn High School band instructors Brooke Stehr and Sean Albarran march in the 2026 Rose Parade in Pasadena, California. Selected from educators across the country, they are the only two Mesquite ISD band staff members participating in this year’s parade.

For Stehr, the opportunity reflects both professional growth and a commitment to modeling excellence for her students. “Even as a full-time educator, I can still pursue high-level performance opportunities,” Stehr said. “I believe it’s important for band directors to not only be great teachers, but great musicians as well.” Stehr serves as Horn High School’s percussion director and assistant band director and is in her fourth year with Mesquite ISD.

Albarran, Assistant Percussion Director at Horn, brings 14 years of music education experience and hopes the experience sends a powerful message to students. “I want my students to know they can perform at a national level,” Albarran said. “It takes years of work, but persistence pays off in the long run.” He added that marching alongside educators from across the country allows him to grow professionally and bring new ideas back to the classroom.

Both instructors believe opportunities like the Rose Parade underscore the importance of music education in public schools, where students develop discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills that extend far beyond performance.

As they prepare to march on one of the world’s most recognizable stages, Stehr said sharing the experience with a colleague makes it even more meaningful. “Usually, directors are the only representatives from their school,” she said. “Getting to share this moment with a colleague makes it especially special.”

Their journey is a reminder that pursuing your passion can lead anywhere, even to a national stage.