The Minisink Valley School District has been honored with the “Best Communities for Music Education” designation from The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation.

This is the first time the district’s Music Department has been recognized with this national distinction.

“Music is a valued and integral part of our students’ education here at Minisink Valley, where we place an emphasis on individual needs and the development of the whole child,” said Maria Fenfert, Otisville Elementary band director. “The musical talents of our students are celebrated daily with a wide variety of music course offerings, including our many outstanding performing ensembles. We’re beyond thrilled.”

Superintendent Brian Monahan equally stressed the value of incorporating music into a child’s education cannot be understated.

“Research reaffirms to use the critical importance music education has to our students’ academic success and social development,” he added. “Our music faculty is dedicated and committed to their students’ musical and academic success. They’re second to none. We’re all very proud. Congratulations to the Minisink Valley Music Department and to our supportive families and community.”

Now in its 24th year, the “Best Communities for Music Education” designation is awarded to school districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.

To qualify for the “Best Communities” designation, Minisink Valley 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 education, as part of a well-rounded education, has never been more important to unleash students’ creativity and supports emotional health and well-being as they build connections through music activities,” said Mary Luehrsen, NAMM Foundation  executive director.  “We applaud the administrators, teachers, and communities who support and sustain music education through a period of intense change and are committed to music education so that all children can explore and express themselves through music.”