New Milford Idol Champ Crowned, $1,400 Raised for Schools

New Milford High School held its first annual New Milford Idol competition last week.  In October, 21 students auditioned for a spot in the finals and a chance to be heard by an auditorium full of their classmates.

The overall concept of New Milford Idol was to raise money for New Milford School District’s Anti Bullying Program BUDDY (Bullying Undermines Developing Diverse Youths) and to spotlight the talents of the New Milford High School students.

Senior Ashtin Crawley stepped up and sang her rendition of “Tattooed Heart” by Ariana Grande.

The judges, John Bigger, New Milford Board of Education Member; Kelly Norton, New Milford School District’s Athletic Secretary; and Dorene Zacher, District Student Assistance Coordinator and Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying Coordinator, were all speechless when Crawley began to sing.  

“This was one of my unresolved fears, singing in front of people, so before I graduated I wanted to conquer this obstacle in my life,” said Crawley. “I am still in shock. Never did I think I would get that type of response from the judges or the audience. I felt a sense of acceptance that was unconditional from my peers and adults. I am thrilled to be a student at New Milford and their first New Milford Idol.“

New Milford Idol raised more than $1,400, which will be utilized to offer intervention and prevention programs throughout the district, said Principal Eric Sheninger.

"We never could have predicted the success of this inaugural event.  I commend the students on their desire to showcase their talents while raising money for our District's exemplary anti-bullying program.  I could not be more proud of these students, families, and staff contributed to this event."

The video above shows a selection of clips from the auditions and the finals. Walt Pevny, a computer graphics and photography at New Milford High School contributed to this video.