Martin Luther King Intermediate School orchestra teacher Dr. Elisabeth Sato has been named a quarterfinalist for the 2026 Grammy Music Educator Award. She is one of 200 quarterfinalists nationwide and just 12 from New Jersey.

The Grammy Music Educator Award recognizes current educators who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the field of music education and who demonstrate a commitment to the broader cause of maintaining music education in the schools.

Dr. Sato is in her third year at M.L. King and has previously taught middle and high school orchestra. In addition to her work in Piscataway, Dr. Sato frequently presents at state, local, and national conferences and is instrumental in coordinating the NJ All State Orchestra Program and Central Jersey Elementary Honors Orchestra. She is on the board of the NJ American String Teachers Association and extremely active in the larger music education community.

“We are so proud of Dr. Sato for her selection as a quarterfinalist among the best teachers across the country,” said Rebekah Sterlacci, supervisor of Visual and Performing Arts. “This national recognition is a testament to her teaching, care, artistry, and deep commitment to music education!”