Dave Weatherred devoted more than 30 years to music education in the state of Washington, serving as a band director, music teacher, and administrator at every level of the field. He earned a Bachelor’s in Music Education from Boise State University in 1977 and a Master’s in Music Education from the University of Idaho in 1983. Weatherred began his teaching career in 1977 with the Parma School District in Idaho before moving to Washington to serve as Instrumental Music Teacher at West Valley High School in Spokane in 1979. After six years, he joined Ferris High School in Spokane as Instrumental Music Teacher, later advancing to Music Coordinator for Spokane Public Schools in 1998 and, from 2004 onward, serving as Visual and Performing Arts & Events Coordinator.

Throughout his career, Weatherred played a pivotal role in expanding and strengthening music programs. At West Valley High School, band enrollment increased from 40 to 90 students. At Ferris High School, he grew the band program from 50 to over 200 members and the orchestra from 14 to more than 50 students, fostering participation and excellence in instrumental music.

Weatherred’s contributions earned him numerous honors. He was named Music Educator of the Year by the Washington Music Educators Association (WMEA)/WIAA in 2011, inducted into the WMEA Hall of Fame, and served as president of both WMEA and the Northwest Division of the National Association for Music Education. He also received the Northwest (Section 8) Outstanding Music Educator Award from the National Federation of State High School Associations in 2011–12 and the Distinguished Service Award from the National Association for Music Education – Northwest Division in 2013.

Widely recognized for his expertise, leadership, and dedication, Dave Weatherred left a lasting impact on music education in Washington. His mentorship, program-building skills, and commitment to student success established him as one of the most respected and effective educators in the state.