The Port Washington School District has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from the NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education. Port Washington joins 476 districts across the country in receiving
the prestigious award. This marks the second consecutive year the school district has received this prestigious designation.
The Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded
to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.
To qualify for the Best Communities designation, school district officials answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and community music-making programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.
“We are thrilled that Port Washington is designated as one of the 2016 Best Communities for Music Education in the U.S. by the NAMM Foundation,” said Director of Creative Arts Kevin Scully. “Receiving this honor for a second consecutive year reflects not only the hard work of our teachers and students, but it also is a direct result of the strong support for music education from the administration, Board of Education and the entire Port Washington community.”
Community music programs have been drawing increased attention because of a landmark study by Northwestern University brain scientists. These researchers found new links between students in community music programs and academic success in subjects such as reading.
“The Port community has always been a strong supporter of the district’s music programs. We have some of the most talented young performers you will find anywhere,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kathleen Mooney. “The Best Communities for Music Education reaffirms this, and we are proud to help set an example for music educators throughout the country.”
