Directors

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Jackie Weiss is a musician, educator, community leader, and advocate for public education with a career rooted in expanding access, fostering creativity, and building strong, student-centered programs. Jackie earned both a Bachelor of Arts with Distinction in Music and a Master of Arts in Teaching from The Colorado College, where Jackie was recognized for academic excellence and leadership in the arts while competing as a goalkeeper on the DI women’s soccer team. Over the past twelve years, Jackie has taught music across K–12 settings in Colorado and internationally, developing inclusive, standards-aligned programs and leading award-winning ensembles. Jackie has founded and grown student groups, including mariachi bands, a cappella ensembles, and pep bands, while mentoring students in both musical, academic, and personal growth. Her work has consistently focused on creating engaging environments where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to succeed.

In addition to Jackie’s work in the classroom, she serves as Treasurer and Director for District A on the St. Vrain Valley Board of Education, where Jackie helps guide strategic priorities, oversees policy and financial stewardship, and advocates for public education at the local and state levels. She performs in the Longmont Concert Band as a baritone saxophone player. In addition to caring for her daughter, Maisie, Jackie works as a Social Media Coordinator, supporting small-business growth through data-informed content strategy. Across all roles, Jackie brings a collaborative leadership style, a commitment to equity, and a belief in the transformative power of education to strengthen individuals and communities. Jackie is thrilled to have the opportunity to serve on the LASJB board to assist in any and all ways and to continue advocating for access to and excellence in music education.

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Doug Rasmussen grew up in La Crosse, Wisconsin, & graduated with a degree in Saxophone

Performance from the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. He spent the 1980s in Seattle, Washington and while he was there, was a member of the Fred Radke Orchestra. While in Seattle, he also played with Gladys Knight and the Pips, the Four Tops, the Temptations, and many of the swing-era greats including Steve Allen, Helen Forest, Frankie Lane, and Frank Sinatra Jr.

He was a founding member of the Jazz Police Big Band, with whom he recorded two CDs & wrote many of the charts they played & recorded. After moving to Minneapolis, he found employment with MakeMusic where he was a member of the Finale development team. In 2008, he formed the ACME Jazz Company, a big band committed to playing original compositions.

Now in Colorado and retired, he plays with the Flatirons Jazz Orchestra, Deborah Stafford and the Night Stalkers, the Longs Peak Stompers, and the Longmont Concert Band where he is currently president of the board of directors.

Maggie Watson is a writer and honors student in Boulder, Colorado. She is pursuing a B.A. in English & Anthropology from the University of Colorado at Boulder, where she is currently interning with the University’s French & Italian departments in the library’s rare & distinctive collections archives.

Upon her anticipated graduation in the spring of 2026, Maggie is determined to further her academic journey by pursuing a Ph.D. in a related field while aiming to become a university professor and continuing her creative writing pursuits.

In her leisure time, she finds joy in playing jazz music at local venues, cooking elaborate meals, & exploring the scenic beauty of Colorado through hiking & skiing.

Doug Carmichael is a respected musician and dedicated music teacher based in Colorado, known for his captivating performances and inspiring teaching style. As a saxophonist with a passion for jazz, Doug has been an integral part of the Colorado music scene, performing with a variety of ensembles and connecting with audiences across the region. His playing style, rooted in jazz and infused with blues and modern influences, reflects his love for improvisation and his deep connection to the music.

Beyond performing, Doug is committed to sharing his knowledge with the next generation of musicians. As a teacher, he fosters creativity, discipline, and an appreciation for music in his students, whether they are aspiring professionals or simply exploring music for the joy of it. Doug’s approach combines technical instruction with an emphasis on expression, encouraging each student to find their unique musical voice.

Doug Carmichael’s contributions as a performer and educator have made him a valued member of Colorado’s musical community. There, he continues to inspire through his art and mentorship.