Director Robert A. Luster has been a driving force behind the growth, success, and heart of the Riverview High School Band program. His recent resignation, under difficult circumstances, has deeply impacted students, parents, and the entire band community.

Mr. Luster is more than a band director. He is a mentor, a leader, and a steady source of encouragement and support for hundreds of students. Under his leadership, students have gained confidence, discipline, leadership skills, and a true sense of belonging. For many, band is not just an activity—it is their safe place.

The sudden loss of his leadership has already begun to affect students emotionally and academically. Important performances, competitions, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences are now being taken away.

Due to the current situation, the following student opportunities have already been canceled or are at risk of being canceled:

Jazz Band MPA performance

After-school rehearsals

Spring concert

Universal Studios trip

Color guard recital

Leadership and drum major training

Icebreaker rehearsals for the upcoming season

These are not just events. These are moments students have worked toward all year—opportunities to perform, grow, lead, and create lasting memories. Losing them is devastating to the students who have dedicated countless hours to this program.

While concerns were raised regarding campus safety, those who know Mr. Luster firsthand recognize his strong commitment to student well-being. He has consistently worked to address concerns and prioritize safety.

We respectfully ask Riverview High School administration and Hillsborough County School District to reconsider this decision.

Our students deserve stability.

They deserve strong leadership.

They deserve the opportunity to continue thriving under a director who has proven his dedication and success.

We stand united in support of Mr. Luster and ask that he be reinstated as Director of Bands at Riverview High School.

Why This Matters

The Riverview High School Band program has seen extraordinary growth and achievement under Mr. Luster’s leadership:

2023–2024

Marching Band: Straight Superiors at MPA; 11th at State Championships

Jazz Band (newly created): Overall Superior at MPA

Winter Guard: 1st Place at State Championships

Indoor Percussion: Advanced division; Top 10 finish

2 All-County and 2 All-State students

2024–2025

Marching Band: Straight Superiors despite major hurricane disruptions

Wind Ensemble: Straight Superiors

Jazz Band: Straight Excellents

4 All-County and 1 All-State student

2025–2026

Marching Band: Straight Superiors; 3rd in State (highest in school history)

First time ever making Finals

13 All-County students and 1 All-State student

Program Growth & Leadership

Led a program supported by 17 booster parents and 13 staff members

Secured a $15,000 equipment donation

Expanded student leadership opportunities

Organized major events, concerts, and recruitment programs

Student Opportunities

Trips to Florida State University, Universal Studios, and Disney

Performances in community events like the Brandon Parade of Lights

Band banquet attendance nearly doubled in one year

Call to Action:

If you believe in supporting students, preserving strong leadership, and protecting a program that is clearly thriving—please sign and share this petition.