South Brunswick Schools Relaunches Arts Program Connecting Students & Seniors

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — The South Brunswick School District has relaunched an intergenerational arts program that pairs students with senior residents. The program brings live performances to the South Brunswick Senior Center for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic paused the initiative more than two years ago.

For more than 20 years, South Brunswick has brought students and residents together through shared performances and creative experiences. While many of these initiatives were paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Performing Arts Department spent the past two years reengaging the community and revitalizing partnerships that reflect the district’s commitment to connection, creativity, and collaboration.

This initiative was developed in collaboration with the South Brunswick Office on Aging, working closely with JillAnn Foxxe.

“We are incredibly grateful for the partnership and leadership of JillAnn Foxxe and the South Brunswick Office on Aging,” said Rob Sears, K-12 Supervisor of Music for the South Brunswick School District. “Her vision for bringing generations together through meaningful experiences aligns beautifully with our goals as educators. Collaborations like this allow our students to see how the arts can build community, foster empathy, and create lasting connections beyond the classroom.” Students from Cambridge Elementary School's 5th grade orchestra and choir performed for senior center residents on Jan. 29, sharing selections from their winter concert repertoire.

Cambridge music teachers Milena Dawidowicz and Kamila Szproch, both professional musicians, prepared students for the event over several weeks. The two also performed a duet for the audience at the program's conclusion, drawing a standing ovation.

The district's music department said additional performances and events with the senior center are planned for later this spring.

"By connecting students and seniors through live performance, we are fostering meaningful relationships and creating authentic learning experiences for our students," Sears said

Additional performances and collaborative events with the South Brunswick Senior Center are scheduled for later this spring.

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