Congratulations to Dr. Elisabeth Sato, instrumental music teacher at Martin Luther King Intermediate School, for being selected as the New Jersey state winner of the NFHS Outstanding Music Educator Award!

This prestigious award recognizes significant and ongoing contributions to music education. Dr. Sato was presented with her award at M.L. King’s Winter Concert on Jan. 21 by Supervisor of Visual & Performing Arts Rebekah Sterlacci. Ms. Sterlacci is a member of the Board of Directors of New Jersey Music Educators Association, which nominated Dr. Sato for this distinguished honor.

Dr. Sato is a passionate orchestra educator who has grown her program to record numbers while fostering creativity and leadership among students. With advanced degrees in music education and violin performance, she shares expertise through state leadership roles and national conference presentations.

Dr. Sato, a Grammy Music Educator Award quarterfinalist in 2026, inspires through innovative teaching, mentorship, and community engagement, making her a respected voice in music education across New Jersey and beyond.