Middletown City Schools Recognized Nationally for Excellence in Music Education
Middletown City Schools Recognized Nationally for Excellence in Music Education
Middletown City School District is proud to announce that the district has been honored with the “Best Communities for Music Education” designation from the NAMM Foundation. Districts receive this recognition for outstanding achievement in providing music access and education to all students.
Superintendent Deborah Houser said, “The Middletown community has long recognized the caliber of MCSD’s music department, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see that excellence honored nationally by the NAMM Foundation. I’m proud of the passion, talent, and commitment our Middie educators and students bring every day.”
This marks the first year Middletown has earned the “Best Communities for Music Education” designation. To qualify, districts complete detailed questionnaires about their music programs, including instruction time, participation, and community support. The NAMM Foundation has recognized communities for their outstanding music education programs for 26 years.
MHS Orchestra Director Corey Hall added, “We’re thrilled this recognition affirms what we’ve long known: music education plays a vital role in students’ social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Being named a NAMM Foundation Best Communities for Music Education reflects MCSD and the Middletown community’s commitment to equitable, high-quality opportunities for every student. This honor represents years of investment, collaboration, and dedication to whole-child education, as well as the strength of our K–12 music programs in fostering creativity, discipline, and engagement. As we celebrate, we remain committed to sustaining the access and support that make this possible for our students and community.”
MHS Band Director Dave Leisten noted, “This award reflects the longstanding value placed on music education in Middletown City Schools. We are incredibly proud of our students, who continue to demonstrate excellence and earn recognition for their achievements year after year. This honor not only celebrates their success, but also the strong support from MCSD and the Middletown community in ensuring all students have access to music education. As directors, we’re proud to carry on this tradition of musical excellence in Middletown.”
To learn more about the Best Communities for Music Education designation and the NAMM Foundation, visit their website.
