The National Association of Music Manufacturers (NAMM) Foundation has once again recognized the Edmonds School District as one of the “Best Communities for Music Education” in the United States.

The 13th annual Best Communities for Music Education survey acknowledges 176 schools and districts across the U.S. for their commitment and support for music education as part of the core curriculum. This is the fourth year in a row that the Edmonds School District has been recognized with this distinction, and it is the only Washington state school district on the list.

Each school receiving the “Best Communities” designation scored in the 80th percentile or higher in the survey’s grading process. Participants in the survey answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and other relevant factors in their communities’ music education programs. The responses were verified with district officials and advisory organizations reviewed the data.

Established in 1999, the BCME survey is a nationwide search for communities that provide access to music education as an essential part of a complete education and exemplify commitment and support for music education. The BCME survey is designed and implemented in collaboration with The Institute for Educational Research and Public Service of Lawrence, Kansas, an affiliate of the University of Kansas.

The NAMM Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to advancing active participation in music making across the lifespan by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving and public service programs from the international music products industry.