Barnegat Schools Again Recognized For Music Education

BARNEGAT, NJ — For the seventh consecutive year, the Barnegat Township School District has been named a 2026 Best Communities for Education Award winner by the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation.

The district said the recognition honors its commitment to expanding opportunities for students to learn and grow through the musical arts. The annual Best Communities for Music Education award is now in its 27th year, according to the district.

“Receiving this recognition for the seventh consecutive year is an honor,” said Maggie Reilley, the district’s Supervisor of English Language Arts, Social Studies and Visual/Performing Arts. “It speaks to the commitment of our music educators, the hard work of our students, the support of families, and the value our district places on arts education.”

The continued success of the district’s music program comes from passionate teachers, district and community support, and opportunities for students at every grade level, Reilley said. She said the program gives students ways to explore music through performance ensembles, classroom instruction and creative experiences from elementary school through high school.

“Our program emphasizes both excellence and accessibility for all students, allowing them to explore music through performance ensembles, classroom instruction, and creative experiences beginning in elementary grades and continuing through high school,” said Reilley. “Music education benefits students academically, socially, and emotionally. Through music, students learn discipline, teamwork, creativity, and perseverance. Performing and creating music also helps students build confidence, communication skills, and a sense of community. Our goal is not only to develop strong musicians, but also thoughtful, collaborative, and well-rounded individuals.”

This year, the district highlighted music, vocal and instrumental arts through collaborative art shows and concerts, cross-curricular collaborations, school vocal and instrumental concerts, and music-education-based field trips. The district also pointed to student participation in events including the Ocean County and N.J. State Teen Arts Festival.

Barnegat also hosted the Tournament of Bands New Jersey State Marching Band Championships and the local Tournament Indoor Association Indoor Color Guard & Percussion Competition.

In addition, the district’s fifth annual One Barnegat Music and Arts Festival is scheduled for 5 p.m. Thursday, June 4, at Barnegat High School, 180 Bengal Blvd. The festival will feature student artwork from all grade levels, and the chorus, choir, all bands and all drama groups will perform.

“We are committed to keeping the music and arts program at the heart of our curriculum,” said Brian Latwis, superintendent of schools. “Arts programs provide students with a comprehensive education and a necessary outlet for expression. Through these programs, our dedicated arts teachers can instill lessons that last a lifetime.”