For the first time, the NAMM Foundation has named Midlakes Schools and the Phelps-Clifton Springs Central School District one of the 'Best Communities for Music Education.'

"This is such an exciting time for music education at Midlakes," proclaimed Kathryn Kenyon, who chairs the music department at Midlakes Schools.

For 27 years, the Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) designation has been awarded to districts and individual schools that demonstrate outstanding access to music education for all students.

This year, more than 1,000 schools and districts were selected for this honor because they demonstrate outstanding achievement in their efforts to provide music access and education to all students. Midlakes offers a robust music program, presenting students with a variety of opportunities to receive quality classroom instruction and to perform with a range of ensembles. We have a number of community groups that continue to support our educators and students alike.

Earning the honor is no small feat. High School Band Director Will Hope explained the rigorous process to earn the nomination. Kenyon compared the process to grant writing. This is a recognition Midlakes has pursued before, but had not earned the designation.

"To qualify for the BCME designation, our district answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, and support for the music program and community music-making programs. Responses were verified by school officials and tabulated by WolfBrown, an esteemed national independent research and evaluation firm specializing in education and the arts," explained Hope. 

The 'Best Communities' designation recognizes collaborative, from-the-ground-up efforts of teachers, administrators, and families who strive to keep comprehensive music education as a key part of the curriculum. Recognized districts also lead the way with opportunities as outlined in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which recommends music and the arts as important elements in a well-rounded education for all learners.

Special congratulations to our Music team: Kathryn Kenyon, Will Hope, Amy Conners, Chris McAfee, Bethany Cripps and Eileen Bohrer & Amy VanderWeide,