An instrumental music teacher at Martin Luther King Intermediate School has been selected as Outstanding Music Educator for New Jersey by the National Federation of State High School Associations.

Dr. Elisabeth Sato said she feel extremely honored to win such a prestigious award, which recognizes her significant and ongoing contributions to music education.

“Being able to make music every day is truly a gift,” Dr. Sato said, “especially in a school district with talented students, outstanding colleagues, and a very supportive administration. I want to thank NJMEA and Rebekah Sterlacci for the nomination and all of my amazing Piscataway students who inspire me to be a better educator every day.”

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.

“Liz is an exceptional educator who puts students first, stays current and inspired by music education pedagogy, and who is an active member of our Piscataway music community, as well as the larger music community,” Sterlacci said.

Dr. Sato, who is in her fourth year teaching in Piscataway and 13^th year teaching overall, 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.

She is the NJMEA performance chair for orchestra, facilitating and coordinating All-State orchestra experiences for students all over the state. She also is a frequent presenter at music education conferences, and is active in the state chapter of the American String Teachers Association.

“Liz cares deeply about her students and brings her wealth of experience to the classroom to inspire our young musicians each day,” Sterlacci said. “We are so proud of her many accomplishments!”

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

“This award means a lot to me,” she said, “and I'm proud to represent Piscataway Township Schools.”