Erin-Leigh Van Orden is the instrumental music teacher at both Oakwood and Heywood Avenue Elementary Schools. Born and raised in Edison, NJ, she was extremely involved in musical competitions. She received many awards including membership in the McDonald’s All American Band, when she competed against 4,200 students from across America and was the only one from New Jersey to be a member of the 53 member Band. Ms. Van Orden attended Trenton State College (The College Of New Jersey) following her graduation from Edison High School. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education, and is dual certified in K-12 music education and elementary education. Classically trained, trumpet was her major instrument.

Ms. Van Orden also taught at Central Elementary School, Lincoln Avenue Elementary School and Orange High School during her tenure in the Orange Public Schools that began in 1998.

An exciting part of Ms. Van Orden’s services to her students is working with special needs students. Over the last few years she has gained huge success with autism via the delivery of music education. Ms. Van Orden has personal interests in students with special needs and has become an advocate of children with Down syndrome.