By Susan Burton, Henry Co. Schools Communications Director
Paris, TN – Henry County School System 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 BCME designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement for providing music access and education to all students.
“We’re ecstatic about being recognized for the impact of music education on our district and our students,” said Dr. Felicia Bates, Supervisor of Music Programs. To qualify for the Best Communities designation, Bates and HCHS Band Director, Grayson Martin answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and community music-making programs.
Henry County School System’s music programs introduce PK-12 students to foundational music skills. As a student reaches middle school, opportunities for more specialized participation include band, strings, and choral classes which will build on each student’s musical gifts. Lakewood music teacher Jenny Cooper adds, “The impact music has on students is giving them an outlet like anything else they do in their day. It allows students to blossom. The experience of making music together creates a bond that cannot be recreated. It’s a form of magic that we get to experience every single day!”
The Best Communities for Music Education reach K-12 school districts throughout the U.S. and offer opportunities to increase awareness and support for music programs. Over 900 districts were recognized for having the highest commitment to producing exceptional music programs. For more information about The NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.