Lakewood Named Best Community For Music Education

LAKEWOOD, OH — Lakewood has again been named one of the best communities for music education. This is the fourth consecutive year the Lakewood Schools have received that designation from the NAMM Foundation.

Only 754 communities in the U.S., and 47 in Ohio, were named best communities for music education. The award is given to school districts which demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.

To qualify for the award, school districts must answer detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, how the community supports music programs and more.

"This award recognizes that Lakewood City Schools is leading the way with music learning opportunities as outlined in the federal education legislation, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). The legislation designates music and the arts as important elements of well-rounded education for all children. Research into music education continues to demonstrate educational/cognitive and social skill benefits for children who make music," the district said in a statement on its website.

What does Lakewood Schools offer for music education? A lot, actually.

• Music education is offered from kindergarten through 12th grade
• Instrumental instruction starts in 5th grade
• Middle school students can take classroom band, orchestra and choir
• Middle school students can also participate in extracurricular groups like Strolling Strings and Jazz Band
• Lakewood High School has five orchestras, four choirs and three bands
• The high school offers classes in music theory, music history, pop music and keyboard
• High school musical extracurricular groups include: the Lakewood Ranger Marching Band, the Lakewood Project, Chamber Choir and Jazz Band