Mr. Ray Souza has had a highly successful career as a high school music teacher and as an accomplished saxophone player who continues to perform.  He has also taught at the elementary and college level.  He attended Hughson High School, Modesto Junior College, received his BA degree and teaching credential from CSU, Stanislaus and has completed his coursework for a Master’s Degree in Music Education at San Francisco State University.  Before his arrival at Linden, in 2002 he taught in Humboldt County for 20 years at a number of schools including Humboldt State University and Fortuna High School, where his groups have won numerous awards and honors.  Mr. Souza has been guest conductor for many Honor groups including Humboldt Count’s All-County Music Festival.  Along with servings on many committees and boards including President of the North Coast chapter of California Music Educators Association (CMEA) and adjudicator at several instrumental and choral festivals for the North Coast and Northern California music Educators, Mr. Souza has received numerous awards for his excellence in teaching with a commendation for Teaching Excellence in Humboldt County (1990), Band Director of the Year (NCBDA, 1994) and North Coast Teacher of the Year (CMEA, 1996).  During the 2002-2004 school year he served as the Assistant Area IV representative for the Bay Section of CMEA.  Mr. Souza has played with numerous community groups, concert series and had the opportunity to perform professionally with the Manhattan Transfer.  Mr. Souza, a highly regarded asset to the Linden High School Music Program, has been overseeing the continuing success of the ever growing and award winning Marching Band, Concert Band and Jazz Band.  In 2004 Mr. Souza also took over the duties of choir director and conducts the high school Chorale and Advanced Chamber Ensemble.  On a personal note, Mr. Souza married his high school sweetheart, Cheryl in January 2004.  He has two sons, two step daughters and 8 grandchildren.