Vernon recognized as a 'Best Community for Music Education'

VERNON — Vernon students receive general music instruction beginning in kindergarten at a minimum of one time per week; however, beginning in grade four, students have the option of beginning instrumental lessons for a host of instruments, including for the first time this year, percussion, viola, and cello.

In fact, despite a 1.6 million dollar reduction in state aid, funds allocated to support Vernon’s performing arts program have been consistently maintained and in some cases increased significantly.

As a result, the Vernon Township School District has recently been named one of “The Best Communities for Music Education”by the NAMM Foundation.

Now in its 14th year, Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) affirms school districts that have demonstrated exceptional efforts toward maintaining music education as part of the schools' core curriculum.

Winners are selected based on a school’s commitment to funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and community music-making programs. Entries were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Institute for Educational Research and Public Service of Lawrence, Kansas, an affiliate of the University of Kansas.

“The recognition reflects the talent of both our teachers and our talented student body," said Superintendent of Schools, Dr. John B. Alfieri particularly since only 307 schools nation-wide were recognized despite more than 2,0000 submissions. "It is a tremendous honor.”

Vernon was the only Sussex County district to receive the honor.

In addition to the traditional music educational structure that Vernon offers, it also offers: jazz band in grades five through 12th, a guitar club, a harmony acapella/show choir, Close Harmony/show choir, among many others.