Ron Sikes began teaching in the Jefferson R-VII School District (Festus, Missouri) in 2000. His responsibilities include Class Percussion, 5th Grade Band, 6th Grade Band, 7th/8th Grade Band, 7th/8th Grade Jazz Band, and High School Band. In addition to his many teaching responsibilities, Sikes maintains a busy schedule as a composer, percussionist, drum set artist, and jazz vibraphonist. Currently, Ron performs with the Funky Butt Brass Band & Gumbohead. Along with writing music for Funky Butt Brass Band & Gumbohead, he also writes music for school bands, available through JPM Music Publications. In 2009, Ron authored and self-published the beginning band method book, “Keys to Success.”

Mr. Sikes earned a Bachelor’s of Music Education degree in 1999 from University of Missouri-St. Louis. Ron has been influenced by some of the finest educators, including Mark Trautwein, Brad Madson, Dr. Claude Baker, Dr. William Richardson, Marvin Sparks, Jeff Hamilton, Sally Herman, and Dennis Reis. In 2008, Ron Sikes completed his Masters in Educational Administration from Missouri Baptist University.

Sikes’ professional affiliations include the MBA, Phi Beta Mu, MENC, MOJAE, MMEA, MSTA, PAS and remains active as performer, teacher, and clinician throughout the area.