Northbrook Schools Win National Recognition For Music Programs

NORTHBROOK, IL — Northbrook District 28 has been awarded the 2017 Best Communities for Music Education Designation for the third year in a row. This year, 11 Illinois school districts in the state were given the 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.

“This recognition is made possible by the outstanding support for music education in District 28 by the administration, faculty, and - most importantly - the community, including our parents and students,” said band director Greg Scapillato. Students can join orchestra beginning in second grade and can begin band in third grade, according to the district.

Of the more than 2,000 school districts that filled out detailed survey questions about music funding, graduation requirements, participation in music class, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Two of the qualifying districts in the state are in Northbrook (see a full list of Illinois designees below.)

The designations are offered by the nonprofit NAMM Foundation. It aims to encourage active participation in music and supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants. It supports research, public service programs and philanthropic giving, according to its website.

Full list of Illinois Winners:

Caption: Mrs. Sarah Stanley conducting orchestra at Northbrook Junior High (Courtesy D28)

» via NAMM Foundation, Northbrook District 28