Akron Central Schools Receives National Recognition for Music Education Support for the 14th year in a row!

Akron Schools has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for their outstanding support and commitment to music education. Now in its 26th year, the Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement for providing music access and education to all students.

Two awards are given each year: Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) for school districts and the Support Music Merit Award (SMMA) for individual school sites. Both reach K-12 schools and districts throughout the U.S. and offer opportunities to increase awareness and support for music programs. Over 1,000 districts and individual school sites (public, private, charter, parochial) were recognized for having the highest commitment to producing exceptional music programs. 

“Music education is a tremendous source of pride for our district and an essential part of the fabric of our school community,” said Superintendent Andrea Kersten Taylor. “Our students benefit not only from developing their musical talents, but from the confidence, collaboration, and sense of belonging that music fosters. We are incredibly fortunate to have passionate and dedicated music educators, along with a highly engaged parent advocacy group, AMP, who work together to create opportunities and experiences for our students that are truly second to none.”

“This recognition is a meaningful affirmation of the collective commitment of our staff, students, families, and community,” Taylor added. “It reinforces the importance of continuing to invest in and grow our music program so that every student has access to the enriching experiences that make Akron such a special place.”

“Band was the class I looked forward to the most in school” said senior percussionist, Whitley Koopman. “It helped me find a balance between being focused, creative, and expressive in the midst of stressful school days. I will always appreciate the opportunities playing the drums gave me and the connections I made along the way.”

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, Akron 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 by school officials and reviewed by the leading arts educational research firm, WolfBrown. 

The Akron School District is committed to providing a well-rounded music experience to its students. Starting with general music classes in Pre-K, students are exposed to music at an early age. All students have the opportunity to sing in chorus starting in 3^rd grade, and in 4^th grade they are able to play a band or orchestra instrument if they so choose. There are a number of ensembles and music activities that students can participate in throughout their years as a tiger including: chorus, band, orchestra, marching band, pep band, color guard, small ensembles, musical, and honors festivals. Our Akron musicians regularly perform concerts at the school and they also frequently perform around the area in local nursing homes, businesses, and parades. With hundreds of students being involved in the music program, there is no doubt that Akron is a special place for music!

About The NAMM Foundation The NAMM Foundation is the charitable arm of the National Association of Music Merchants, the global trade association for the music products industry. The foundation works to remove systemic barriers that limit access to music-making and career pathways in the music industry. By investing in bold ideas and innovative solutions, we strive to build inclusive and thriving musical communities. For more information about The NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.