Originally from the United States, Ms. Stacey Perez has been involved in the performing arts since the age of four. She pursued professional music studies as a musician in the United States Marine Corps, earning her music degree from the Armed Forces School of Music in Norfolk, Virginia, before completing a Bachelor of Arts in Fine and Performing Arts at National University in San Diego, California.

During her military career, Ms. Perez performed extensively throughout the United States and abroad, appearing at prestigious events including the Canton Pro Football Hall of Fame festivities and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. She also had the opportunity to perform with and for notable artists and public figures, including Harry Connick Jr., B.B. King, Lee Greenwood, and Muhammad Ali.

With more than 25 years of experience in music education, Ms. Perez has served as a public and private school educator, music director, choreographer, marching arts instructor, and business owner. Her expertise spans woodwinds, brass, percussion, voice, piano, guitar, dance, and musical theatre. Throughout her career, ensembles under her direction have earned numerous gold and silver distinctions at national and international competitions.

The 2025–26 school year marked Ms. Perez’s tenth year at St. Paul. Since joining the school, she has created and built the award-winning St. Paul Sound program from its inception, transforming it into one of the nation’s most respected school music programs and earning recognition among the top 5% of music programs in the United States. In addition to directing the music program, she serves as Head of the Co-Curricular Department, advisor to The Courier student newspaper, advisor to The Giving Circle—a student-led initiative that fosters community awareness and inspires meaningful action in support of underserved populations—and Chair of the Events Committee, overseeing major school events and fundraising initiatives.

Ms. Perez is passionate about helping students develop the skills and confidence needed for success beyond the classroom. She believes that music education provides a powerful foundation for responsibility, communication, respect, self-advocacy, leadership, and personal growth.

Her favorite quote, by Paul Shane Spear, reflects her educational philosophy:

“As one person I cannot change the world, but I can change the world of one person.”