The Center for Future Audiences and the Colorado Springs Philharmonic are thrilled to celebrate a remarkable educator. On Sunday, April 26th, we officially named Megan Liske from King Elementary as our first-ever District Music Educator of the Year. This prestigious honor recognizes her unwavering dedication to her students and her innovative approach to music education in District 11.
The celebration actually began a few days early. On Wednesday, April 22nd, Karl Heffernan, Program Coordinator for the Center for Future Audiences, surprised the King Elementary staff during a stand-up meeting. He shared the exciting news and provided cookies for the faculty, ensuring Megan was celebrated by her peers before the formal ceremony. Consequently, the news brought a wave of excitement to the entire school community.
Nominated by both parents and colleagues, Megan is described as “three educators in one.” She effectively leads the band, orchestra, and general music programs at King Elementary with remarkable skill. Under her leadership, she has more than tripled orchestra enrollment and produced engaging performances like “Bunnies: The Musical.” Furthermore, she introduces creative classroom experiences, such as a “March Madness” style musical bracket competition. Another teacher noted that Megan supports students not just as musicians, but as “confident and capable humans.”
Ultimately, Megan’s impact reaches far beyond the classroom. She frequently gives up her personal planning periods and after-school hours to help students prepare for solo performances. Additionally, she has built partnerships with groups like the CSU Pueblo Jazz Band to bring professional music directly to her students. The Colorado Springs Philharmonic is proud to honor an educator who so perfectly exemplifies our mission to inspire the next generation of artists. We congratulate Megan Liske on this well-deserved recognition and thank her for her incredible service to the families of District 11.
