Frank E. Gawle has been selected to receive the prestigious Outstanding School Educator Award by the Neag School of Education Alumni Society. He was chosen because of his excellence as a teacher, his dedication to his students and his service to his community. He has served as band director at Wilton High School for over 25 years and is fondly known as the "Music Man" of Wilton, Connecticut.

Mr. Gawle received his B.S. Degree in 1981 in Music Education from the University of Connecticut. Since he began teaching, he has consistently instilled in his students a deep love of music. Dr. Gary Richards, Superintendent of Schools in Wilton, describes "Chip" as an "outstanding educator who has gained the respect, love and trust of the Wilton Public School students, staff and parents". He directs a 160 piece marching band, two concert bands and three jazz ensembles. His groups regularly compete in Adjudication Festivals, earning excellent and superior ratings.

Mr. Gawle is recognized as an effective leader, innovator and role model by those who have taught with him. He has served as the Director of the Western Region for CMEA, the All-State Band Chairman and as Dean of Students as well as Assistant Principal in Wilton for five years. He has chaired many all-school committees, has been a teacher association representative and negotiator and an Instructional Leader for the Arts. Demonstrating the respect of his colleagues, he was chosen co-chair of the NEASAC School Accreditation Steering Committee.

"Chip" Gawle will be honored at the Eleventh Annual Neag School of Education Awards Dinner that will be held at the Rome Hall Ballroom on the Storrs Campus on Saturday, May 16, 2009. Anyone wishing further information can contact Lynne Allen at (860) 486-2240, (888) UC-ALUM-1 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .