Granby Public Schools has named Jessica Foskitt, music educator and orchestra instructor, as its 2026–27 Teacher of the Year, recognizing her dedication to music education and her instrumental role in building the district’s orchestra program.
Foskitt, who teaches at Kelly Lane Primary School, Wells Road Intermediate School and Granby Memorial Middle School, is completing her fifth year in the district. During that time, she has overseen remarkable growth in the strings program, expanding opportunities for student musicians and helping the program reach the high school level for the first time this year. She is known for her commitment to nurturing students’ musical skills and fostering a lifelong appreciation for music. She has emphasized the importance of providing access to music education for all students, particularly those who may not have opportunities for private lessons outside of school.
Her nomination states, “Jessica has started and maintained the orchestra program throughout the entire district. It is amazing what she has built! I have watched her tune 10+ instruments on stage during student performances. It’s incredible how she works between every school in the district. She builds confidence in students with the ability to gracefully set high expectations in a compassionate manner.”
In her application, Foskitt reflected on educators who have impacted her and shared that her “greatest contributions to education are creativity, organization and willingness to take risks to create a new yet relevant experience for orchestra students. In programming, I often write or arrange pieces to fit the ensemble in front of me. I also regularly combine different ages and instruments in non-traditional orchestral settings to give students the best experience possible.”
Foskitt’s background as a college professor and Suzuki method instructor has further enriched the learning experiences she provides for students across the district.
District administrators announced the honor during the second annual Strings in the Park performance, a fitting venue to celebrate an educator whose work has helped cultivate a thriving music program throughout Granby schools. Foskitt will be formally recognized at the district’s convocation in August, where she is scheduled to deliver the Teacher of the Year staff address.
Submitted by Granby Public Schools