Orcas Island School District is thrilled to welcome cellist and educator Sarah Dorian as our new K-12 music teacher and strings specialist for the 2026-27 school year!
Sarah arrives with an exceptional pedigree, having studied at Vanderbilt University, the University of Notre Dame, and Fort Hays State University, graduating at the top of her class. A seasoned soloist and ensemble performer, she has built thriving school orchestra programs, taught at the collegiate level, and most recently guided students at Wasatch Academy.
Beyond her credentials, Sarah brings deep, longstanding ties to the Pacific Northwest and Orcas Island. “Joining the Orcas community feels like coming home,” shares Sarah. “The first time I set foot on the island back in 2001, fresh off a move from Indiana, I was here to play a solo cello gig for a local wedding.
It was love at first sight! I’m so eager to build on the wonderful musical traditions here and help students of all ages discover confidence and joy through music.”
Sarah invites families to partner in this journey. “Consistent home practice turns early curiosity into lasting musical confidence,” she notes. Parents can champion our young musicians by encouraging classroom focus and daily practice routines.
Please join us in giving Sarah Dorian a warm island welcome!
–as published in Islands’ Sounder September 2026