Former CCHS graduate leaves a mark

CCHS graduate Phil Goddard has spent the last 35 years of his life enriching his students’ lives through his work as a band director. Goddard’s long and fulfilling career began with a conversation with his band director at CCS–Mike Bogard. Bogard wasn’t at Chase County Schools for long, only a few years, but—according to Goddard–left a lasting mark.
Goddard says that when Bogard asked him to take over the position of drum major in the marching band his sophomore year, his future was changed forever. He fell in love with band and with directing. In his own words, he “found his calling”. He participated in band the rest of his time at CCS and then attended Hastings College, majoring in instrumental music. He spent a few years moving around but would eventually settle in Lincoln and take over the position of band director at Milford Public Schools. He has spent the last 23 years at Milford Public Schools and retired at the end of this school year. During his time as band director, he has directed his ensembles to winning multiple awards and plaques and has over 100 students that participate in band.
It is no surprise that the staff and students of MPS and the community of Milford say that Goddard will be missed. Goddard says he is sad to leave but is ready to spend time focusing on his family.