Elmhurst Unit District 205 earns national honor for music education support; 2nd time since 2021
Elmhurst Unit District 205 has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education for the second time in four years.
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.
District 205 is one of only 32 districts that were chosen from Illinois out of 975 across the nation.
“Throughout their journey of excellence in District 205, students are offered a variety of pathways and diverse learning experiences to ensure they are provided opportunities to explore their passion and purpose,” said Superintendent Keisha Campbell. “Arts programs, including music education, are highly valued by our District 205 families and students. It is an honor to receive the Best Communities for Music Education designation once again because it highlights the tremendous hard work of our staff, families and students to ensure that the District 205 music program remains exemplary.”
To qualify for the Best Communities designation, District 205 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.
“Music is one of the core elements of a high-quality, well-rounded education both in general and here in District 205,” said Patrick Baker, the district’s director of arts, physical education and health. “We are proud of our long history of excellence in the arts and we know that the strength of our music program is one of the reasons families move to Elmhurst. This award is a true testament of the support we continue to receive from our administration, our two music parents associations, and the entire Elmhurst community.”
District 205 provides music instruction for all students from kindergarten through high school. Through music education, students are engaged as active learners, building life skills required to create, enjoy, perform, and listen to music. Music education enhances skills in problem solving, communication, team work, and the ability to make connections across disciplines.
About Elmhurst Unit District 205
Elmhurst Unit District 205 serves more than 8,400 students throughout one early childhood center, eight elementary schools, three middle schools, one high school and a transition center. Their vision is that all students will graduate ready for college, career and life. They achieve this vision by educating, engaging and empowering all students throughout their Journey of Excellence.
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 life span by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving, and public service programs. For more information about The NAMM Foundation, visit www.nammfoundation.org.