For the eighth consecutive year, the South Country Central School District has been designated by the NAMM Foundation as one of the nation’s Best Communities for Music Education for its outstanding commitment to music education and for demonstrating outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.

The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants and advances active participation in music. To qualify for the Best Communities for Music Education designation, the district 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.

“The music program here at South Country has continued to provide students with a well-rounded education from kindergarten to the 12th grade,” said District Music Chairperson Victoria Hartman. “This award recognizes the commitment our teachers, administration and community make toward a child's educational, cognitive, emotional and social skill development by way of a strong music education program.”

Ms. Hartman explained that during the pandemic, school districts like South Country have re-committed to their already stellar music education programs, which provide valuable ways to keep students engaged. Bellport High School junior and vocalist Emma Butler described the importance of music in her life.

“Music is important to me because it provides me with an outlet to express myself throughout the school day,” Emma noted.

Bellport High School Principal Timothy Hogan expressed his deep pride in the district’s music program. “Even during these turbulent times, our teachers have provided a supportive and meaningful experience for our students,” Mr. Hogan said. “I look forward to a return in normalcy in the years ahead but am thankful for the opportunities and experiences provided to our students in the interim.”