For the past three years Middle Township High School has worked with teaching artist Gail Scuderi on their AIE Arc Residency in which Ms. Scuderi and Middle Township High School students and staff to design and build a functional rain garden that includes ceramic structures and a multi-panel mosaic art installation.
The rain garden captures stormwater runoff and prevents it from overloading local sewer systems and also serves as an outdoor classroom for students to study environmental science, as well as learn about water conservation and local ecology. Previously Middle Township High School had been recognized for its work in eliminating plastic pollution through the installation of a water bottle refill station and an educational campaign to inform students and staff about the importance of reducing plastic pollution.
Organization Name: Young Audiences New Jersey
Award Title: AIE Residency Champion Award
Year: 2026
What does receiving a New Jersey Governor’s Award in Arts Education mean to you? Receiving a New Jersey Governor's Award is both humbling and deeply meaningful to me. While I am honored to be recognized, I see this award as a reflection of the collective effort, support, and encouragement provided by our students, staff, administrators, facilities team, teaching artist Gail Scuderi, and the broader community. What makes this recognition especially rewarding is seeing students take pride in creating something that is both beautiful and purposeful. The rain garden is more than an art installation—it is a living classroom where students can explore environmental science, conservation, creativity, and community responsibility. Watching students contribute their ideas, talents, and hard work to a project that will benefit future generations has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career. One of the most meaningful aspects of this project is that it reflects the unique culture of our school, the natural environment that surrounds us, and the important role the arts play in helping students connect with both. Through the ceramic structures, mosaic artwork, and living landscape, students have left a lasting mark on our campus. Years from now, they can return to Middle Township High School and see something they helped create—a reminder of their creativity, collaboration, and commitment to their community. Few educational experiences offer students the opportunity to leave such a visible and enduring legacy. After many years as an art educator, it is especially gratifying to see student creativity and environmental stewardship recognized on such a prestigious level. This award affirms my belief that art has the power to connect people, inspire learning, and create positive change. I am grateful to have been part of a project that brought together art, education, and environmental responsibility in a way that will leave a lasting legacy for both our students and our school. I am deeply grateful to the many people who have supported this journey. My heartfelt thanks go to my family, friends, colleagues, administrators, Board of Education members, and community partners for their encouragement and belief in the value of arts education. I am especially thankful to teaching artist Gail Scuderi, whose creativity, expertise, and dedication helped bring this vision to life and who has been there every step of the way. And last, but certainly not least, thank you to my partner and builder extraordinaire, whose countless hours, unwavering support, problem-solving skills, and willingness to tackle every challenge made so much of this project possible. This recognition belongs to all of you as much as it does to me.
Can you share a specific experience in arts education that had a profound impact on your development as an artist? One of the most valuable lessons I learned came during my junior year of college. I was given an assignment to find a public venue to display my work. Instead of choosing an easy option, I decided to approach Bonwit Teller, a department store located around the corner from where I lived. It was an ambitious idea for a student, but I took a chance and asked. What began as a class assignment grew into an opportunity to design and print 75 yards of hand-printed fabric for a store display. More importantly, it led to relationships and professional connections that lasted long beyond the project itself. That experience taught me an important lesson that I have carried throughout my career as both an artist and educator: don't be afraid to reach out, ask questions, seek feedback, and pursue opportunities that seem beyond your reach. Meaningful projects, partnerships, and learning experiences often begin with a simple conversation and a willingness to put yourself out there. My advice to young artists and teachers is to be curious, take risks, and not wait for opportunities to come to you. Share your work, ask others what they think, listen to feedback, and be willing to learn from the process. Some of the most rewarding experiences of your career may come from a challenge that initially feels uncomfortable or impossible.
What advice would you give to young artists who are just beginning their journey in arts education? My advice is to stay curious, remain open to learning, and never underestimate the impact you can have on a student's life. Teaching art is not just about creating skilled artists; it is about helping young people build confidence, solve problems, think creatively, and see the world from new perspectives. Be willing to take risks, embrace unexpected opportunities, and collaborate with others. Some of the most rewarding projects begin with a simple idea and grow through teamwork and community support. Most importantly, remember that the relationships you build with students will often have a greater and longer-lasting impact than any single lesson or project. If you inspire students to be curious, creative, and confident, you have succeeded.
