When Kris Flores walks into the music room at Sunrise Drive Elementary, 109 young voices light up. These third, fourth, and fifth graders aren't just learning to sing; they're performing in 2-, 3-, and 4-part harmonies, a remarkable achievement for elementary-aged students. And this month, both their teacher and their ensemble are being recognized at the state's highest level.
A Double Honor
This year, Mrs. Flores received the ACE (Arizona Choral Educators) Elementary Choral Educator of the Year Award, one of Arizona's most prestigious honors for music educators. The award, presented at the Arizona Choral Education conference, recognizes Mrs. Flores for her exceptional contributions to choral music education and her profound impact on students and colleagues throughout Arizona.
"This recognition is so well-deserved," said Andrea Davidson, principal of Sunrise Drive Elementary. "Kris pours her heart into every rehearsal, every concert, every moment with her students. She doesn't just teach music—she builds confidence, fosters joy, and creates a community where every voice matters."
But the celebration doesn't stop there. The Sunrise Choir, under Flores's direction, was selected to perform at the prestigious Arizona Music Educators Association (AMEA) Annual In-Service Conference, at the Mesa Convention Center. Selection to perform at this conference is a highly competitive honor, reserved for outstanding music programs from across the state.
Building Something Beautiful
What makes Flores's work remarkable isn't just the technical excellence her students achieve, though performing 4-part harmonies in elementary school is no small feat. It's the way she creates an environment where 109 students, each with different abilities and confidence levels, come together to create something beautiful.
"Mrs. Flores makes every student feel like their voice is important," Davidson noted. "She challenges them, supports them, and helps them discover what they're capable of. That's the gift of a truly exceptional teacher."
The Sunrise Choir's performance at the AMEA Conference represents countless hours of rehearsal, vocal training, and collaborative learning. Students haven't just developed their musical abilities; they've learned teamwork, perseverance, and artistic expression. They've learned that their individual voices, when combined with others, can create harmony.
A Legacy of Excellence
Having both the teacher and the ensemble honored at the state level is rare and speaks to the strength of Sunrise Drive's music program and CFSD's commitment to comprehensive arts education. While many schools have scaled back music programs, CFSD continues to invest in the arts as essential to student development.
"Music education teaches so much more than notes and rhythms," Davidson said. "It teaches discipline, collaboration, and the confidence that comes from performing. Kris embodies everything we want our students to experience in the arts—excellence, joy, and growth."
Celebrating a Master Teacher
Mrs. Flores joins an elite group of Arizona music educators who have shaped the state's choral tradition. Her recognition reflects her belief in the power of music to transform young lives.
Congratulations, Kris Flores, on this well-deserved honor! Thank you for the countless hours, the beautiful music, and the gift you give to every student who walks through your door. Sunrise Drive Elementary—and all of CFSD—is incredibly proud of you.