Harborfields Central School District

For the sixth consecutive year, the Harborfields Central School District has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for their outstanding support and commitment to music education. Now in its 26th year, the Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in providing music access and education to all students.

"I'm incredibly proud of our music program and this recognition," shared K-12 Music Department Coordinator Dan Bilawsky. "The Harborfields community's unwavering support for music education has long been apparent, and everyone involved – students, parents, staff, administration, the Board of Education – shares this honor."

Two awards are given each year: Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) for school districts and the SupportMusic Merit Award (SMMA) for individual school sites. Both reach K-12 schools and districts throughout the U.S. and offer opportunities to increase awareness and support for music programs. Over 1,000 districts and individual school sites (public, private, charter, parochial) were recognized for having the highest commitment to producing exceptional music programs.  

To qualify for the Best Communities designation,  the Harborfields Central School District 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 Responses were verified by school officials and reviewed by the leading arts educational research firm, WolfBrown.  

“Earning the Best Communities for Music Education Award for the sixth consecutive year is a true testament to the talent and dedication of our outstanding music educators,” said Dr. Rory Manning, Superintendent of Schools. “We are incredibly proud of this achievement!”   

About The NAMM Foundation

The NAMM Foundation is the charitable arm of the National Association of Music Merchants, the global trade association for the music products industry. The foundation works to remove systemic barriers that limit access to music-making and career pathways in the music industry. By investing in bold ideas and innovative solutions, we strive to build inclusive and thriving musical communities.