Mrs. Helai Karim Rutan
Mrs. Helai Karim Rutan is the Director of Choral Activities at Lightridge High School in Aldie, Virginia. An alumna of James Madison University, she holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and is currently pursuing her Master of Music Education at Florida State University.
Mrs. Rutan opened Willard Intermediate (now Middle) School in 2018 as its first choral director, where she built a strong foundation for choral excellence and inspired students’ passion for music. The program grew from 126 to 253 students in just two years. In August 2020, she continued with her students to open Lightridge High School, helping to establish its strong music department. Today, the Lightridge choral program serves over 200 students, representing a thriving community of young musicians.
When she isn’t at Lightridge, Mrs. Rutan serves on the committee of the Afghan-American Community Organization and sings with the Voce Chamber Singers. As an Afghan-American music educator, she is passionate about using music as a bridge for storytelling, empowerment, and cultural understanding. Mrs. Rutan is honored to continue building a vibrant community of musicians who use their voices to connect and inspire change.
Mrs. Alexis Hedlund
Alexis Hedlund is a dedicated Music Educator and vocalist who serves as a Chorus Director at Lightridge High School and Freedom High School in Loudoun County, Virginia. An alumna of George Mason University, Alexis holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education.
Alexis has built a strong foundation for choral excellence during her time in Loudoun County Public Schools. She previously spent five years as a Music Teacher (K-5) at Potowmack Elementary School, where she directed the school musicals and fostered passion for music among elementary students. Her dedication to curriculum and student engagement has been recognized through consecutive Innovation in Education Grants and consistent ratings as a Highly Effective Teacher. During this time, Alexis served as a Mentor Teacher for first-year educators and provided Teacher Cadet mentoring for college students pursuing education, in addition to presenting professional development sessions to her colleagues.
When she isn't leading choral programs, Alexis maintains an active performance career. She sings with the Voce Chamber Singers, where she serves as the Alto Section Leader, and is a sought-after freelance soloist across Northern Virginia. Alexis Hedlund is passionate about building vibrant communities of young musicians and utilizing her vocal artistry to connect and inspire.