The Syosset Central School District has once again been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from the NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education. Syosset CSD joins over 500 districts across the country in receiving the prestigious award in 2017. This marks the 16th time the district has received this designation.
The BCME designation recognizes outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders who work together to assure access to music learning for all students as part of a well-rounded education. Districts that have been recognized by the NAMM Foundation are often held up as models for other educators looking to boost their own music education programs. To qualify for recognition, district officials 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.
“This is a wonderful distinction for our program because it is an award that recognizes the Syosset community’s commitment to music education” said Syosset CSD Coordinator of Fine and Performing Arts, K-12 Michael Salzman. “Syosset has long recognized the importance of music education in the lives of its young people. We have great teachers and talented students, all of whom achieve excellence because of the level of community support for music education found in Syosset.”
The award and the implementation of the federal ESSA law bring attention to the importance of keeping music education part of the school’s core education for all students. It also highlights music’s vital role in students’ overall success in school. Community music programs have been drawing increased attention because of a landmark study by Northwestern University brain scientists. These researchers found new links between students in community music programs and academic success in subjects such as reading.
In light of the BCME recognition, Syosset HS students electing to pursue an Arts Pathway in their studies will be well prepared should they choose to major in music upon entering college.
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