Schools
UCS again named one of nation's Best Communities for Music Education
UCS Elementary Honors Choir
For the second straight year, Utica Community Schools has been named one of the best communities for music education in the nation.
UCS has been honored for its overall support and commitment to music education by the California-based National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM).
“This national designation once again demonstrates the quality of our students, the outstanding support of our community, and the commitment and dedication of our vocal and instrumental music teachers,” said Superintendent Dr. Christine Johns. “Music education is an integral part of the educational experiences offered in our exemplary school district.”
The NAMM Foundation’s stamp of approval acknowledges and celebrates 388 school districts across the United States. The Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) designation recognizes the efforts of these communities to preserve and advance quality music education programs for all students.
To be considered for inclusion in the Best Communities for Music Education, districts are required to detail student access to music instruction and positive achievement outcomes. The data is reviewed by researchers at the Institute for Educational Research and Public Service of Lawrence, Kansas (an affiliate of the University of Kansas) and the NAMM Foundation.
In conducting the annual BCME selection process, the NAMM Foundation is joined by advisory organizations in the fields of music and education such as Americans for the Arts, The John Lennon Educational Tour Bus, League of American Orchestras, The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, Music for All, Music Teachers National Association, National Guild For Community Arts Education, National Parent Teacher Association, Yamaha Corporation of America, Young Audiences and VH1 Save The Music Foundation.
The NAMM Foundation is a non-profit organization supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants and its nearly 9,000 members worldwide. The Foundation’s mission is to advance active participation in music-making by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving and public service programs from the international music products industry. For more information about the NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.
