Shenandoah – Shenandoah Valley School District and North Schuylkill School District were recognized as Best Communities for Music Education in their fourth and fifth years, respectively.
These two districts were among 975 districts nationwide to receive the award from the NAMM Foundation.
To receive the Best Communities designation, each school district answered detailed questions regarding funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instructional time, facilities, support for music programs and community music production programs, and more. Responses were verified by school officials and reviewed by the University of Kansas Institute of Music.
“Receiving this award again for the fifth year in a row is a tremendous honor for our district and its outstanding music program. This is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our music department faculty and amazing students.” North Schuylkill High School Band Director Jacob Schoener said.
Since the passage of Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) In 2015, a focus on well-rounded education was announced, with many school districts recommitting to music and arts education programs. During the pandemic, music and art programs have been an essential part of keeping students engaged in school. ESSA provides funding designated for enrichment educational opportunities through Title IV Part A Student Academic Success and Achievement grants. NAMM Foundation research reveals that these grants are widely used by school districts to address instructional gaps in access to music and arts education.
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