This week, we're celebrating Gracin, a member of our very first Youth Arts Ed Council cohort, now thriving at Rowan University and continuing her advocacy journey (read her full story on our blog). We also have a few important updates to share: NJDOE is seeking input from arts education experts to help shape implementation of the new Visual and Performing Arts Learning Standards, and the department has launched a new subscription system for its weekly Broadcast through GovDelivery. Rounding things out, mark your calendar for the Legal One: Arts Education & The Law workshop this October, and check out a new employment opportunity in Berkeley Heights.
Meet Gracin, a member of ArtsEdNJ's very first Youth Arts Education Council cohort back in Spring 2024! Now a rising junior at Rowan University, Gracin has thrown herself into internships, leadership roles, and hands-on arts advocacy work since her time with us. Catch the full update on our blog to hear how that first council experience helped set her on this path and where she's headed next.
Your Expertise Can Help Shape the implementation of the new 2026 NJ Visual and Performing Arts Learning Standards
Successful standards require thoughtful implementation. The NJDOE is seeking educators, instructional leaders, higher education partners, and other arts education experts to help develop implementation guidance for professional learning and instructional resources for the revised New Jersey Student Learning Standards.
Consider applying to bring your voice and experience to this important work.
The New Jersey Department of Education has launched a new subscription system for its weekly Broadcast and other communications. If you already receive the Broadcast, no action is needed. If you have colleagues who would like to receive NJDOE updates—or if you'd like to manage your subscription preferences—they can subscribe through the new GovDelivery portal.
Oct. 8, 2026; 9 am - 3 pm at FEA, 12 Centre Drive, Monroe Township, NJ 08831 Fee: $195 Members/Non-Members (breakfast and lunch included)
In Partnership with FEA Professional Learning and Arts Ed NJ
Arts activities in schools play an important role in the development and success of students. The Arts provide a place where students of all learning levels can participate in the same activity, and the opportunity to meet other students that are in different grades and classes. This workshop includes discussions about many of the important issues involved with developing and maintaining successful Arts Programs in your School District.
Presenters:
Sandra L. Jacques, Esq., LL.M., Assistant Director of Legal Education
John Worthington, Esq., Coordinator of Special Education Law
Mary M. Reece, Ed.D., NJPSA/FEA Director of Special Projects & Co-Liaison to NJPSA District Equity Leaders Committee
Dr. Kimberley Markus, Former NJDOE Commissioner
Wendy Liscow, Executive Director, Arts ED NJ
Nikki Van Ess Supervisor of Social Studies Grades 6 - 12, Business, and Visual Arts Grades 9 - 12, Mahwah Public Schools
Courtney Carrelha, K-12 Gifted and Talented Supervisor, K-12, English Second Language Supervisor, 6-12 World Language Supervisor, Mahwah Public Schools
Rosie Grant, Executive Director, Paterson Education Fund
Kira Rizzuto Director of Learning Programs, Arts Ed NJ, Director of Programs & Partnerships, ArtsEdSEL
The Berkley Heights Public Schools is seeking a dedicated educational leader to fill their Interim Director of STEAM (grades 6-12) position. Below is a brief overview of the position:
Interim Director of STEAM (grades 6-12)
Berkeley Heights Public Schools
July 31, 2026 - December 23, 2026
QUALIFICATIONS:
Valid New Jersey Principal or Chief School Administrator Certification
Administrator experience required
If you are interested in applying, please email your letter of interest and resume to assistant executive director Michael Vinella at mvinella@njpsa.org
If you would like more information about the position, please contact him directly at 609-235-4500.
