Our History

C. M. Rice Middle School was established by the Plano Independent School District in 1999. Over the years under the direction of Mr. Jason Tucker, the band program has developed into one of the leading middle school band programs in the country. Jason Tucker remained the director of bands until the spring of 2023, when leadership was passed along to his then assistant director and Rice Band Alumni, Ms. Annalee Hixson. 

Under their leadership, the Rice band program has received numerous years of "Sweepstakes" awards from UIL participation, the ASBDA Outstanding Texas Band Program award (2012), and the John Philip Sousa Foundation Sudler Silver Cup (2014). They have also been named finalist in the TMEA Honor Band process in 2009, 2010, 2012, 2014 and 2018.