Hillsborough Township Public Schools 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 22nd 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, according to information provided by the school district.
To qualify for the Best Communities designation, the Hillsborough Township Public Schools 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, according to the statement.
“During the challenge of instructing students during the pandemic, our music education program connected students, lifted student and community spirits, and helped students gain an appreciation for and a deeper understanding of the positive power of music in our lives,” Dr. Kim Feltre, assistant superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, said in the statement. “Being honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation spotlights the innovation and creativity of our music teachers and directors and highlights how our music education program makes a difference.”
Ellery Lambert-Smith, an eighth grade band student at Hillsborough Middle School, shared her thoughts on why music education is so important in school.
“Music education in schools is critical because it provides students the opportunity to become part of a huge community that will always be there to support and encourage each other. The camaraderie made in music is like none other – it helps students to love and feel confident in school and develop important life skills such as discipline, goal setting, teamwork and leadership. Music education also provides students with a unique, positive outlet for channeling creativity and personal expression. It incorporates all things that will set students up for a successful future in anything,” she said in the statement.
For more information about The NAMM Foundation, visit www.nammfoundation.org