Piscataway Township Schools has been named among the Best Communities for Music Education in America for the eighth year in a row. Piscataway is one of just 935 districts across the country to be chosen for the prestigious honor for 2025.
 
The NAMM Foundation (National Association of Music Merchants) has recognized the district for its outstanding commitment to music education. Piscataway is one of just 69 districts in New Jersey and six in Middlesex County to be selected.
 
“This national recognition salutes the commitment of our community, so every child can learn and grow with music,” said Rebekah Sterlacci, supervisor of visual and performing arts. “The NAMM Foundation has recognized our community for the outstanding efforts of teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community leaders who are making music part of a well-rounded education for every child.
 
“Thank you to our outstanding music educators, who bring artistry, community, joy, and excellence to our students each day in and beyond the classroom. They provide opportunity, possibility, and inspire so much hope! Thank you to our District Administration, Board of Education, and our students and families for valuing the arts and centering our music and arts programs as the heart of our community.”
 
Now in its 26th year, Best Communities for Music Education highlights outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community leaders who work together to ensure access to music learning for all students as part of the school curriculum.
 
“Thank you to Ms. Sterlacci for leading this district’s wonderful Visual and Performing Arts Department,” said Interim Superintendent Dr. Johanna S. Ruberto. “I have repeatedly been impressed by the talent and commitment I have seen by our young musicians and their dedicated teachers. The arts are a vital part of our curriculum, and their hard work pays off in so many wonderful ways. This is truly a well-deserved honor.”
 
To qualify for the Best Communities designation, Piscataway Township School representatives answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and community music-making programs. Responses were verified by school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.