Spotlight: Ashley Dunne (CT '23)

Connecticut Milken Educator Ashley Dunne is a music teacher for grades K-5 at Gainfield Elementary School. Dunne collaborates with colleagues to connect music to what her students are learning in their math and history classes. Dunne hopes all of her students feel like they belong in her classroom. "Having a creative outlet and a place where students can be themselves is crucial to creating inclusive and welcoming schools." Ashley Dunne received a 2023-24 Connecticut Milken Educator Award on October 18, 2023.

Milken Family Foundation: How have students responded since your Milken Educator Award surprise?

My students have been such big supporters ever since my surprise of a lifetime on October 18, 2023! Right after receiving the award, many students had questions about whether I was moving to Los Angeles (there were even some tears), but once I cleared everything up there was nothing but joy. As our fifth graders were getting ready to graduate at the end of the school year, many of them came up to me recounting the events of that day as ones they'll never forget. I wholeheartedly agree with them and am so glad that we got to experience the Milken magic together! 
 
MFF: Who are your role models as an educator? Is there an experience you had in the classroom as a student that shaped who you are as an educator? 

I was inspired to become an educator from the experiences I had in the orchestra classroom growing up. I had a wonderful music teacher, Mrs. Linda Hughes, who made the orchestra classroom an accepting place where I truly felt like I belonged. I made lifelong friends in my music classrooms growing up! A big part of my goal as a music educator is to provide a similar space for my students. I want them to feel that when they walk into my room, they will be accepted no matter who they are. I've done some work studying the text Street Data by Shane Safir and Jamila Dugan and have adapted a quote from their book for my classroom. Hanging on a poster in my classroom, I have their words: "I see you. I believe in you. You are safe to grow and thrive here. I want to hear your voice." 
 
MFF: Tell us about your first year of teaching. What memories stand out? Who or what helped you through it? 

My first year of teaching was a whirlwind! I was traveling between multiple schools and working hard to prepare for six concerts. I remember spending hours on Saturdays and Sundays lesson planning at my parent's dining room table, often calling my soon-to-be sister-in-law and soon-to-be husband, both music educators, to see what they were planning in their classrooms for the week. I was grateful to have the support of my colleagues during that time, and especially a wonderful mentor who helped to guide me through those difficult months.  

 
MFF: What do you hope students remember from their time with you? 

I hope that students think of their time with me and smile! Music should be joyful! I was grateful to have studied with a wonderful music researcher and professor, Dr. John Feierabend, during my time at the University of Hartford. A big part of his philosophy was the "30-year plan." Feierabend's 30-year plan is the idea that we need to think forward 30 years when educating our young musicians. We hope to instill foundations of musicality in our students; the ability to carry a simple tune and maintain a steady beat while also appreciating the art of music, in hopes that in 30 years they will pass those skills to their own children. The hope is that our students can someday hold their babies in their arms and sing a lullaby to soothe them.  
 
MFF: Why do you believe all students should have access to music? How has it helped students at your school, especially those who may struggle in other subjects? 

Music, and the fine arts in general, are deeply intertwined with our culture. To study the fine arts is to study humanity itself. Time and time again I find students who shine in the music classroom despite struggling with other subjects. Having a creative outlet and a place where students can be themselves is crucial to creating inclusive and welcoming schools.  
 
MFF: What advice would you share with people who are interested in becoming teachers? 

I would encourage people who are interested in becoming teachers to think deeply about their "why." Once your educational philosophy is clear, it becomes easier to navigate the everyday challenges that educators can face.