The NAMM Foundation’s 14th annual Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) survey is now open for school districts and schools across the country to participate in. The survey acknowledges and celebrates schools and districts across the U.S. for their commitment to and support for comprehensive music education in schools. Ninety-four percent of Americans consider music to be part of a well-rounded education and believe that schools should offer musical instruction as part of the regular curriculum, according to a 2006 Gallup poll.
Teachers, parents, school administrators and board members are invited to complete the 2013 BCME survey online now through Friday, January 18, 2013. Many districts have reported that making the “Best Communities” list has had a positive effect on their ability to preserve music education for their students amid budget cuts to arts programs. In 2012, 176 communities were recognized, including 166 school districts and 10 schools.
The BCME survey asks detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and other relevant factors about their communities’ music education programs. One application may be submitted per school or district, and community members are encouraged to work together to complete the comprehensive survey.
www.nammfoundation.org/research/best-communities-music-education-survey
