North Salinas High School Music Teacher Named 2027 Grammy Award Quarterfinalist

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 13, 2026

North Salinas High School Music Teacher Named 2027 Grammy Award Quarterfinalist

SALINAS, CA — North Salinas High School music teacher Brandon Ellsworth has been named a quarterfinalist for the 2027 Music Educator Award, presented by the Recording Academy and Grammy Museum.

Selected from more than 2,100 nominations submitted nationwide, Ellsworth was named one of only 202 quarterfinalists for the award this year.

The award honors music teachers who have made a lasting impact on students and school communities through music education.

At North Salinas High School, Ellsworth is known for building a music program that encourages students to grow not only as performers, but as leaders, collaborators, and confident young people.

“Brandon represents the kind of educator who changes lives through relationships, passion, and belief in students,” said Superintendent Dr. Zandra Jo Galván. “We are incredibly proud to see him recognized on a national stage for the work he is doing here at North Salinas.”

For Ellsworth, the recognition reflects the work and dedication of his students just as much as his own.

“I find myself really inspired by our students,” Ellsworth said. Good teaching is a reciprocal relationship. Without the efforts of my students, I would never grow as a teacher. It's my hope that my efforts continue to motivate them to push past their limits. This nomination is just as much a reflection of their hard work as it is mine. I feel incredibly lucky that I get to do the work I do."

The Music Educator Award was established by the Recording Academy and Grammy Museum to recognize teachers who have made significant contributions to music education while helping inspire the next generation through the arts.

The selection process will continue later this year as semifinalists and finalists are announced ahead of Grammy Week 2027 in Los Angeles.

Media Contact:
Mario Garai
Public Information Officer
Salinas Union High School District
mario.garai@salinasuhsd.org