Lawrence School Board Honored For Commitment To Music Education

LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ — The Lawrence Township School District Board of Education has been recognized statewide for its support of music education. It has been awarded the 2020 Outstanding School Board Award by the Board of Directors of the New Jersey Music Educators Association (NJMEA), the school district announced on Monday.

“NJMEA takes great pride in recognizing individuals that have made significant contributions to music education both within the confines of their school district and beyond,” NJMEA said in its congratulatory letter. “The strength of the application presented by the music teachers of your district was compelling.”

District parents also contributed to the application. NJMEA will present the award on Feb. 21 at the General Session of the NJMEA’s State Professional Development Conference in Atlantic City.

“We are thrilled that our Board of Education is receiving this recognition,” Lawrence Township Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ross Kasun said. “Even in tough budgetary times, our board acknowledges the benefits of music, in its many forms, for our students and finds a way to fund our comprehensive programs.”

The school board supports a comprehensive music education program in grades Pre-K through 12, according to the district. Starting in fourth grade, students can begin a band/orchestra instrument and join the chorus. Select music ensembles begin in fifth grade and are comprised of chamber strings, jazz band, and pitch black (select chorus).

Marching band and color guard are open to all high school students. These groups recently received new uniforms and started participating, and doing well, in competitions. Music-related technology is infused into all grade levels.

Board of Education members support district music programs by attending a multitude of performances. They budget funds for new instruments, sheet music and supplies that are evenly distributed throughout the seven schools.

Additionally, the school board approves out-of-district professional development for music teachers. National Association for Music Education memberships are funded for all music teachers who sponsor music students for regional and all state ensembles.

The Lawrence Township School District has earned the title of “Best Community for Music Education” through the NAMM Foundation for 11 years (2004, 2008-2010, 2013-2019).