Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) has once again been named one of the nation’s Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM). The NAMM Foundation works to advance active participation in music making across the lifespan by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving, and public service programs. BCME is a signature program of the NAMM Foundation that recognizes and celebrates school districts for their support and commitment to music education.

David DuBose, GCPS’ director of Fine Arts, said “This is the 21st year in a row we have received this honor. The fact that Gwinnett County Public Schools continuously wins this award is a testament to the ongoing support that this community has for the music education of students. GCPS students have the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in an environment where music education is valued and supported through successful music programs in all our schools, and I am proud of that. This would not be possible without the support of our School Board, Superintendent Dr. Calvin J. Watts, all of the parents in Gwinnett, and our extremely dedicated and talented teachers and students.”

The BCME award recognizes the commitment of school administrators, community leaders, teachers, and parents who believe in music education and who are working to ensure that it is part of a complete education for all children. It also enables educators to draw attention to music programs that are sometimes overlooked or not fully understood by members of the public beyond the school community.

A variety of nationally known organizations act as advisors of the Best Communities for Music Education program. These include Americans for the Arts, League of American Orchestras, The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, Music for All, Music Teachers National Association, National Guild for Community Arts Education, Yamaha Corporation of America, Young Audiences, and VH1 Save the Music Foundation.

For more information about the NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.