Emmett Drake, who teaches at both West Hartford’s Conard and Hall high schools, has received the Connecticut Outstanding Music Educator of the Year Award. 

Hall High School Interim Principal Sarah Isaacs with Emmett Drake, who was presented with the Connecticut Outstanding Music Educator of the Year Award on March 14, 2025. Photo credit: Ryan Leef

By Ryan Leef

On March 14, 2025, Emmett Drake, the Director of Orchestras at both Hall and Conard High Schools, was honored with the Connecticut Outstanding Music Educator of the Year Award by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS).

This prestigious award, established in 1989,  recognizes exceptional music educators for their significant contributions to music education and the lasting impact they have on their students.

Andrew Mayo, the supervisor for the Department of Fine and Performing Arts for West Hartford Public Schools, presented the award on behalf of NFHS at a ceremony at Hall High School, stating, “Mr. Emmett Drake, has demonstrated these [qualities] through his hard work, dedication and indelible impact he has had on his students, the school community, and the greater community of music educators. He embodies the spirit of the award as an inspiration for all work to inspire and elevate the next generation through the power of music,”

Drake began pursuing his musical passion with the piano and violin and expanded his talents into composing and conducting. He has been an educator for 17 years, 15 of which have been dedicated to the West Hartford community.

In attendance at the award ceremony on Friday was Sarah Issacs, the interim principal of Hall High School, who has worked with Drake since the beginning of his teaching career in West Hartford, and she noted, “[Mr. Drake] goes above and beyond the classroom to help so many students. Congratulations Mr. Drake, and thank you for all that you do for the West Hartford community.”

Department of Performing Arts Supervisor Andrew Mayo (left) at a ceremony for Emmett Drake, who was presented with the Connecticut Outstanding Music Educator of the Year Award on March 14, 2025. Photo credit: Ryan Leef

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