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WASD Secures 'Best Communities for Music Education' Designation for 21st Year

District Wide

May 05, 2023 | Fine & Performing Arts

BCME2023

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (MAY 5, 2023) — Williamsport Area School District has once again been recognized as one of the Best Communities for Music Education from The NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education. 

This is the 21st time in 22 years that WASD has received the designation, which is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.

WASD is among only 830 school districts selected nation-wide.  

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, WASD answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.

“We are proud and honored to have our music program awarded this designation now for more than two decades,” said Superintendent Dr. Timothy S. Bowers. “This award speaks to the high-quality music educators we have in our schools, whose tireless dedication continues to deliver a high-quality, comprehensive program. Congratulations to our music department!”

 “Receiving the NAMM Best Communities for Music Education is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire school community, including parents, school board members and administrators,” said Matthew Radspinner, WAHS orchestra teacher and department chair. “It showcases the importance of collaboration and support from all stakeholders in providing our students with a comprehensive education that includes music. The recognition also signifies our commitment to fostering creativity, expression and teamwork through music education. We are grateful for the unwavering support of our parents, school board and administration, and we will continue to work together to provide our students with the best possible educational experience.”

 The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants and its approximately 10,300 members around the world. The foundation advances active participation in music making across the lifespan by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving, and public service programs. For more information about the NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.

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