DV picked best for music

MILFORD — The Delaware Valley School District was one of 388 districts nationwide named a “2015 Best Communities for Music Education" by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation.

The foundation recognized school districts in 46 states. In its 16th year, the program singles out districts for outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders who have made music education part of the core curriculum.

In addition, 120 individual schools across the nation are being awarded the Support Music Merit Award (SMMA), which recognizes support for school-based music education programs.

Ensuring that every child has access to music in schools requires commitment by students, teachers, and those who determine school budgets,” said Mary Luehrsen, executive director of the NAMM Foundation. “We commend the districts and schools that have earned the Best Community designation this year. They join with so many that believe as we do that there is a vital link between do-rei-me and the ABCs.”

The designation takes on added significance this year with new research showing strong ties between music education and overall student success. A new body of evidence, released at the start of the school year by Northwestern University brain researcher Dr. Nina Kraus, shows that participation in music education programs helps improve brain function and sparks language development. The Associated Press, The Wall Street Journal and National Public Radio highlighted the new research.

A complete list of districts and schools receiving Best Community and SupportMusic designations from the NAMM Foundation in 2015 can be found at: http://bit.ly/1FpE9ED.