The NAMM Foundation has honored Ichabod Crane Central School District with the Best Communities for Music Education designation for its exceptional dedication to music education.
Now in its 25th 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.
To qualify for the Best Communities designation, school districts 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 Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.
“The music program at Ichabod Crane is an integral thread in the fabric of our learning community,” ICCSD Assistant Superintendent Lucas Christensen said. “Through participation in music, students have the opportunity to develop skills such as the expression of emotion and aesthetics through sound that are not learned in any other setting. Our whole community feels the impact – through concerts, musicals, classroom music, lessons and ensembles. Being named a Best Community for Music Education through NAMM is a badge of honor and is proof positive that our community supports rigorous musical learning opportunities for all students.”
ICCSD currently has 14 performing ensembles, spanning grades 4-12.
Amy Giammattei, Ichabod’s Music Department Team and Curriculum Leader, underscored the multifaceted significance of music education at ICC, saying, “Participating in our music program not only helps improve academic skills but also nurtures important social-emotional skills like teamwork, empathy and self-expression. As our students practice and perform music, they develop resilience and perseverance, learning how to overcome challenges and build confidence in themselves. Our students are gaining valuable life skills that will benefit them both now and in the future.”
According to a statement from NAMM, research into music education continues to demonstrate educational/cognitive and social skill benefits for children who make music.
About The NAMM Foundation
The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants and its 15,000 global member companies and individual professionals worldwide. The foundation advances active participation in music making across the lifespan by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving, and public service programs. For more information about The NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.