Derick Johnson, a native of Newport News, Virginia, is currently in his eighth year of teaching at Crestwood Middle School in Chesapeake, Virginia. Before his tenure as a middle school director, Mr. Johnson spent two years as a general music and orchestra teacher at the elementary school level. Under his leadership at Crestwood Middle School, the band has consistently achieved superior and excellent ratings at state concert band festivals. In recognition of his exceptional teaching abilities and unwavering dedication to his students, Mr. Johnson was honored with the prestigious title of Crestwood Middle School’s Teacher of the Year in 2023. Mr. Johnson holds both his Bachelor’s and Master's degrees in Music Education from Hampton University. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he is an esteemed educator, clinician, and arranger for various percussion ensembles throughout the United States. He currently serves as the Director of Percussion at Hickory High School, where he instructs the front ensemble, percussion ensemble, and winter drumline.