Herricks’s music education program receives national recognition

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Herricks’s music education program receives national recognition
Herricks has consistently been named a Best Community for Music Education for the past 12 years. (Photo courtesy of Herricks Public Schools)

Herricks has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education. Now in its 23rd year, the Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, Herricks 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.

“Music is a prominent part of the Herricks community and is valued and supported by the district administration, the board of education, staff, music teachers and students,” said Anissa Arnold, director of fine and performing art. “I am very proud to receive this recognition from NAMM once again this year and proud to be part of this community where music and our student musicians are in the forefront!”

Since the passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in 2015 and a stated emphasis on a well-rounded education, many school districts have re-committed to music and arts education programs. During the pandemic, music and arts programs were a vital component to keeping students engaged in school. 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 these grants are being widely used by school districts to address instructional gaps in access to music and arts education.

“Music enriches our lives. It nourishes the human spirit and allows us to experience beauty, emotion and human connections. This is why music education is so important,” stated Superintendent of Schools Dr. Fino Celano.

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