Carlsbad, Calif., April 17, 2012—The NAMM Foundation today announced the results of its 13thannual Best Communities for Music Education(BCME) survey, which acknowledges schools and districts across the U.S. for their commitment and support for music education as part of the core curriculum.
Established in 1999, The BCME survey isa nationwide search for communities who provide access to music education as an essential part of a complete education and exemplify commitment and support for music education. The BCME survey is designed and implemented in collaboration withThe Institute for Educational Research and Public Service (www.ku.edu/~ierps/cgi-bin) of Lawrence, Kansas, an affiliate of the University of Kansas.
The announcement of the 2012 Best Communities for Music Education campaign comes during a crucial time as school districts nationwide finalize budgets. The Best Community designation is a distinction worthy of pride, but is also a call to action for local music education advocates to help preserve and potentially expand access to their current music education programs.
Past designees have reported that making the Best Communities list had a positive effect on their ability to advance recognition and support for music programs. NAMM Foundation Executive Director Mary Luehrsen, encourages communities to use the designation as a cornerstone of vigorous advocacy for music education programs.
“We know that communities are struggling to maintain funding for many education programs and we applaud these communities that remain committed to a complete and quality education that must include music and the arts,” said Luehrsen. “We urge communities to celebrate the designation as a national recognition for their commitment to children and most of all, keep the music playing in their schools for years to come.”
Each school receiving the “Best Communities” designation scored in the 80th percentile or higher in the survey’s grading process. Participants in the survey answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and other relevant factors in their communities’ music education programs. The responses were verified with district officials and advisory organizations reviewed the data.
The Torrington Public Schools have received this National Designation twelve times since 2000. This makes the Torrington Public Schools the most recognized school district in Connecticut for Music Education.
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Praise for the Torrington Public Schools Music Department
“At a time when many of our nation’s students are suffering through a meager, test preparation curriculum, it is heartening to know that there are small cities like Torrington that maintain their commitment to provide ALL children with a balanced, high-quality education that includes music and the other arts. Torrington’s students will be far better prepared for successful adult lives as a result.” Scott C Shuler, Ph.D, Connecticut State Department of Education, President NAfME: The National Association for Music Education
“I am so proud that Torrington Public Schools has again been named a ‘Best Community for Music Education’ this year,” said State Senator Kevin Witkos (R-8). “Music education is an excellent opportunity to broaden our children’s understanding of what it means to learn and grow in the classroom. I applaud the efforts that Torrington has taken to maintain this essential commitment to our students and look forward to attending upcoming concerts showcasing these talents.”
Connecticut State Senator Kevin Witkos R-8
“I am so proud of the Torrington School District and their recognition of Best Community for Education for the 12 th year!!! We have such a great group of music teachers in our district and the quality of instruction clearly shows by they enthusiasm of which the students learn and progress. Having children of my own who play an instrument, I know first hand how fortunate we are. I congratulate everyone who helps make Torrington a great place for music education. You are clearly changing lives, one note at a time!” Connecticut State Representative Michelle Cook 65th District
“This honor shows what is possible when a community comes together around the arts. Starting in the elementary level, the teachers involve a ethnically and socio-economically diverse group of students and develop a passion for musical excellence. At festivals and competitions, our students are proud to be the ones who set the standard.” Susan Domanico, Assistant Superintendent Torrington Public Schools
“My best wishes to all the talented music educators in Torrington for receiving this award once again. Through daily work with the students and continued efforts to engage parents in the support of the music program, these efforts have lead Torrington to establishing and maintaining a quality program.”
With much appreciation on behalf of the Torrington Public Schools,
Cheryl Kloczko Superintendent Torrington BOE
