The Monticello Performing Arts Department has been honored with the “2026 Best Communities for Music Education” designation from The NAMM Foundation for their outstanding support and commitment to music education. The Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement for providing music access and education to all students. This is the 19th Year that the Monticello School District has received this prestigious honor.
The Best Communities for Music Education K-12 recognizes schools and districts throughout the U.S. that offer opportunities to increase awareness and support for their music programs. Around 1,000 districts were recognized for having the highest commitment to producing exceptional music programs.
To qualify for the Best Communities designation, Monticello’s Performing Arts Department 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 leading arts educational research firm, WolfBrown.
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. For more information about The NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.
This award is made possible by the entire Monticello Community and it’s continued dedication to providing quality, lifelong music experiences for students. Congratulations to all!