(above) High school and intermediate school student musicians rehearse together during District Music Day on January 8, 2020 as Westfield High School orchestra director Craig Stanton conducts.
Westfield Public Schools Receives National Music Recognition
For a third consecutive year, the Westfield Public School District has been named one of the “Best Communities for Music Education” in the nation for its outstanding commitment to music education.
The 2020 Best Communities for Music Education designation was awarded by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation to districts that demonstrate “outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community leaders who have made music education part of a well-rounded education.”
“Music education is an essential component of the Pre-K-12 curriculum,” says Thomas Weber, Supervisor of Visual and Performing Arts for Westfield Public Schools. “Because of the support of our community, administrators, and the Board of Education, our dedicated teachers are empowered to guide their talented students to their fullest potential. This award is confirmation of the superb musical experiences that are happening in our music classrooms and programs throughout the district.”
Research into music education continues to demonstrate educational/cognitive and social skill benefits for children who make music.
“Each year, many of our talented students are recognized for musical honors which is a testament to the hard work of both our student musicians and our dedicated music staff,” says Superintendent of Schools Dr. Margaret Dolan. “I congratulate Mr. Weber and all of our music directors and student musicians for this prestigious recognition.”
Photo by Westfield Public Schools
(above) Tamaques band director Marisa Minogue accompanies on piano as choral director Benjamin Norkus conducts students in a winter concert in December.
