This press release was submitted for publication to local newspapers, and so far has been picked up by the Courier Post.

March 7, 2014

At the recent annual gathering of music educators for the New Jersey Music Educator’s Conference, Delsea Regional School District’s Superintendent, Dr. Piera Gravenor, was honored with a School Administrator Award for her outstanding commitment to music education. The NJMEA gives this award each year to one distinguished superintendent, secondary principal, and elementary principal from around the state who exhibits their commitment through support of various programs, innovative curricula, funding, and professional development. Dr. Gravenor was nominated by her music faculty after the beginning of her tenure was marked with extraordinary growth and support for the district’s music program. When asked about the significance of the award, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Melissa Williams had this to say:

“The NJMEA award symbolizes what being part of the Culture of the Arts is all about. It is a culture of acceptance, encouragement, collaboration, innovation, and celebration. It is easy as an administrator to support such a group. I am proud to work with such amazing educators within the arts; people who foster creativity and teach lifelong skills using music, theater, and/or the fine arts.”

On receiving her award, Dr. Gravenor reminded those in attendance at the luncheon that sometimes as an administrator it is necessary to “get out of the way” and allow faculty and staff to create, collaborate, innovate, and inspire. There is no question Dr. Gravenor serves as an inspiration to her district, designated a 2013 Best Community for Music Education by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM). The music faculty are proud to work alongside an administrative team that believes in fostering children’s creativity and love of the arts and looks forward to continued growth and prosperity with Dr. Gravenor leading the way.