Northbrook District 28 Music Receives Outstanding Program Award

NORTHBROOK, IL — In Northbrook School District 28, general music education is offered 60 minutes a week for kindergarten through 5th grade, and as an elective in junior high. This dedication to music is paying off as the district recently received the Best Communities for Music Education designation for the sixth time in seven years by The NAMM Foundation.

According to the district, D28 is one of 22 districts in Illinois, and 738 schools and/or districts nationwide, to receive this award in 2022 for its outstanding efforts to provide access to music education for all students.

“This year’s survey included a bank of questions on how the pandemic impacted our music programs. The recognition reflects the steadfast support from the community and District 28 in the face of significant challenges over the last several years,” said Band Director Greg Scapillato, who completed the survey application for the award.

The Northbrook District 28 instrumental music program has four concert bands, beginning with fourth grade, and five orchestras, beginning in third grade. Small group instruction is offered during the day and ensemble rehearsals before school. A district-wide children’s choir is offered for third through fifth grade, as well as several choral groups for sixth grade through eighth grade, according to the district. Between the bands, choirs, and orchestras, over 700 students are involved in the performing ensembles in District 28.