For the twelfth year in a row, the East Rockaway School District has been honored as one of the Best Communities for Music Education by The NAMM Foundation. This prestigious national recognition celebrates school districts across the country for their outstanding commitment to and support of music education.

Now in its 26th year, the Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) designation is awarded based on a rigorous application process that evaluates a district’s funding, instructional time, music class participation, staffing, facilities, graduation requirements and overall community support for music programs. East Rockaway’s continued recognition reflects the district’s unwavering dedication to ensuring music education remains a core component of its students’ academic experience.

The NAMM Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the National Association of Music Merchants, created the BCME program to advocate for equitable access to music-making and to underscore the critical role music plays in a well-rounded education. East Rockaway’s music program exemplifies that mission, providing students with opportunities to explore band, chorus, orchestra and other ensembles beginning in elementary school and continuing through high school.

Students in East Rockaway regularly participate in district-wide concerts, community performances and competitive festivals, with many earning All-County and All-State honors. This 12-year streak of recognition is a testament to the talented educators, dedicated students and supportive community that make music education a priority.

Congratulations to the East Rockaway community on this extraordinary achievement!