Civic Music MKE has announced its 2026 Music Educator Awards, and Krista Witak, Orchestra Teacher at Pilgrim Park Middle School, has been named the Emerging Music Educator of the Year. Civic Music MKE annually recognizes outstanding music educators from the greater Milwaukee area for their dedication, leadership, and impact on students through music instruction.

“This tremendous recognition is greatly deserved,” said Jonathan Brooks, Elmbrook’s Music Coordinator. “Krista’s passion for music education, her commitment to student growth, and her leadership within our district are evident every day. She represents the very best of Elmbrook and the future of music education in our region.”

Krista is a proud Elmbrook educator who teaches middle school orchestra alongside fellow strings educator Alexis Ganos. This year, she co-presented a session titled Building a Culture of Learning Through Student Agency at the Wisconsin State Music Educators Conference in Madison.

A 2021 graduate of the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, Krista earned her degree in K-12 instrumental and general music education. During her time as a student, she was an active member and leader of the collegiate chapter of the American String Teachers Association and helped organize the Eau Claire Area Youth Honors Orchestra event.

Since joining Elmbrook, Krista has prepared her ensembles for performances at the Beyond the Notes Festival in Wisconsin Dells, facilitated district-wide 4th-12th grade string festival concerts, supported the creation of a Middle School Honors experience celebrating the Wisconsin Arts Board’s 50th anniversary, and founded a mixed string ensemble club where students explore alternative music styles such as folk and pop.

Krista’s dedication to inspiring young musicians and expanding opportunities in string education has made a lasting impact on students across the district.

Congratulations to Krista Witak on this well-deserved honor!