Here's one for the home team: Katy ISD named as one of "Best 100 Communities for Music Education in America."
The 2006 roster includes school districts from 31 states whose commitment to quality music education—measured across a variety of economic, curricular and programmatic criteria—has enabled them to stand out despite the many pressures on music and arts programs across the country...."All of the communities who participated in the survey should be applauded for making sure music education is part of a quality education for all children," said Mary Luehrsen, Director of Public Affairs and Government Relations for NAMM. "With testing and accountability requirements, schools are facing many challenges in maintaining curricular time and resources that assure students have access to music education. The schools who participated in the survey and are being recognized here, consider music education integral to a quality education—not optional, elective, or available only if time permits."
Luehrsen also noted that as scientific research continues to bring to light the social, academic and developmental benefits of an education that includes music, communities are placing increased value on music education programs in their districts. "The survey helps to highlight the importance of music education, but it's those communities on the list that truly set the standard. They provide solid role models for community support of music education."
Our kids have eagerly participated in band and choir -- it's been essential. Of course, there are those know-nothings who say it's just a frill, but they are (so far) a minority in our community.
See the full Top 100 list.
Posted by Alan at March 31, 2006 05:20 PM