Janine Jones Hits the Right Notes

When Janine Jones was a young girl, she couldn’t wait until it was time for music class. There was no question in her mind about what she wanted to do and where she wanted to be when she grew up.

“I always loved music, I always wanted to be a teacher, and I always wanted to go to Florida,” she says. “I told myself that I’d take the first job offer I got, and I ended up here.” Jones smiles as she recalls the path that led her from upstate New York to Vero Beach, where she has taught music for 40 years, the last 15 at Osceola Magnet School.

In January, Jones received the Florida Music Education Association’s 2026 Music Educator of the Year award in honor of her dedication to music education, student achievement, and leadership. It was well deserved.

“This award matters because it shines a light on the essential role of music in education. People who have received this award in the past are my heroes,” says Jones, a trace of awe in her voice. Now she is a hero to others for doing what gives her great joy.

Superintendent David Moore was quick to join in the resounding applause: “Janine Jones embodies what it means to educate the whole child. Her passion for music and commitment to excellence have shaped countless young lives. This recognition is a reflection of her talent, her heart for students, and the strength of our arts programs in Indian River County.”

Jones points out that early in her career she learned an important lesson: that no music program is an island; it thrives when woven into the fabric of school and community life. Strong programs grow through collaboration, shared ideas, and a commitment to making music accessible to all.

To that end, her students have performed annually at the Vero Beach Museum of Art’s Holidays at the Museum and Children’s Art Festival. They have also been seen and heard at numerous community events such as ArtWalk, School Choice Fairs, and festivals. When it comes time for the children to sing in front of an audience, the anticipation in their eyes mirrors hers. It’s showtime and they’re ready.

When not on the Osceola campus, Jones is at the Primo School of Performing Arts, where she is the administrative director, or at her private flute studio for beginners through advanced students. She also serves as the children’s choir director at First Presbyterian Church, where she teaches an after-school program on Wednesdays and also hosts a summer music camp.

“I look at all the kids I’ve taught and what they’ve ended up doing,” Jones muses. “One of my first students played in the band at the University of Florida, another student I taught formed a Christian family band. A few have even become music teachers.

“Music isn’t just something students learn; it’s something they live. It teaches creativity, discipline, and empathy. It prepares them for life. In a world of advancing technology and artificial intelligence, music provides something irreplaceable: human connection.”