Milford Public Schools is proud to share major achievements and honors earned by students and staff at the annual Connecticut Music Educators Association (CMEA) Conference and All-State Festival, held March 26–28. The district was represented through elite student performances, prestigious educator awards, and statewide curriculum presentations.
The Jonathan Law Advanced Vocal Ensemble, under the direction of Ms. Kelly Jones, was selected as a CMEA Showcase Ensemble. Chosen through a rigorous blind audition process as one of only six choirs in the state, the ensemble delivered a performance that highlighted both their musical artistry and the strong community bond for which the group is known.
Hannah Fraser, music educator at Orchard Hills Elementary School, was honored with the 2026 CMEA Outstanding Music Educator Award. Nominated by peers and selected by the CMEA Board of Directors, Ms. Fraser was recognized for her commitment to high student expectations and her ability to foster a positive, relationship-driven classroom environment.
The district’s commitment to innovative instruction was on display through two featured session presentations:
"Sound, Science, and Student Voice: How Music and STEM Collide in High Quality Instruction” – Instructional Supervisor for Music, Art, and Library Media Dr. Amy Perras, Elementary Music Educators Mr. Kevin Walsh and Ms. Hannah Fraser shared the successful integration of STEM and music currently active in the Grade 5 curriculum.
"Turning General Music into Experiencing Music: Building a Thriving Modern Band Program": Dr. Amy Perras and Middle School Music Educator Mr. Chris Kalafus showcased the district’s thriving middle school general music program.
Six high school students were selected for the 2026 All-State Ensembles, placing them among the top-tier musicians in Connecticut. Following a successful audition at the Southern Region level, these students completed three days of intensive rehearsals with premier conductors before a final performance on Saturday afternoon.
2026 All-State Participants:
Foran High School: Kiera Beck, Rose Bruno
Jonathan Law High School: Lexi Velez, Delaney Adkins, Jaylen Rogers, Carter Elliott
Additionally, the Student Composition Gallery featured original works from 19 students, including 17 young composers from Orchard Hills Elementary and two from Foran High School (Rose Bruno and Sunny Montanaro).
"Between session presentations, student performances, and special recognitions, the Milford Public Schools Music Department has a lot to celebrate," Dr. Perras said. "We are incredibly proud of the talent and dedication our students and staff continue to demonstrate on a statewide stage."