Piscataway Township Schools have been named among the Best Communities for Music Education in America for the sixth year in a row. Piscataway is one of just 830 districts across the country to be chosen for the prestigious honor for 2023.
The NAMM Foundation (National Association of Music Merchants) has recognized the district for its outstanding commitment to music education. Piscataway is one of just 49 districts in New Jersey and four 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. “Thank you to our amazing music educators, who bring joy, creativity, passion, and artistry to our students each day in the classroom. Their commitment and dedication fill our community with a sense of pride, and with beautiful music! They make the world better each day and show our students what is possible.
“Thank you to our District Administration, Board of Education, and our students and families for valuing the arts and understanding that our programs are the life of our community.”
Now in its 24th 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. Designations are made to districts that demonstrate an exceptionally high commitment and access to music education.
“Piscataway Township Schools take great pride in music education and our entire Visual and Performing Arts Department,” said Superintendent Dr. Frank Ranelli. “We are grateful for the dedication that Ms. Sterlacci and our music educators show each and every day to our students and our community. Arts education is a vital part of our overall curriculum at all grade levels and has been shown to help students succeed in all areas of school.”
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 with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.