DeKalb County School District (DCSD) has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education. Now in its 24th year, the Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in their efforts to provide music access and education to all students.
To qualify for the Best Communities designation, DCSD answered detailed questions regarding 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 reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.
“We are extremely proud of our students who showcase their tremendous talents through opportunities our district provides,” said Monica Fogg, DCSD K-12 Music Coordinator. “We have a collection of the best music educators in the world teaching in our school district.”
This designation solidifies the collaboration with the community and music teachers that work together to pour into our students daily.
“It is good to see that our tireless efforts to enrich, educate and elevate our students through music and performance at the highest level are being celebrated,” said James Seda, Director of Bands at Southwest DeKalb High School.
During the pandemic, music and arts programs were vital to keeping students engaged in school. Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) provides designated funding for well-rounded educational opportunities through Title IV Part A: Student Academic Success and Achievement grants. NAMM Foundation research has revealed that school districts are widely using these grants to address instructional gaps in access to music and arts education.
DCSD is committed to maintaining and improving music programs for all students.
