Earlier this year, Owensboro Public Schools was once again recognized as one of the nation’s Best Communities for Music Education, marking the sixth consecutive year the district has received the honor from the NAMM Foundation.
The annual designation recognizes school districts across the country that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to ensuring all students have access to high-quality music education. Districts are evaluated on areas including funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instructional time, facilities, community support, and opportunities for students to participate in music programs. Responses are verified by school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.
OPS Fine Arts Coordinator Kara Howard said the recognition reflects a long-standing commitment to music education that extends far beyond the past six years.
“It is representative of the continuous commitment to excellence that OPS has for music education,” Howard said. “We are grateful to be nationally recognized for six years, but the roots of our program go much deeper. Our district has understood the importance and impact of a quality music program for many years.”
Howard said the district strives to serve as a model for what can be achieved through strong support at the community, district, and school levels.
She credited the district’s music educators for making the recognition possible, noting that much of their work happens outside the classroom.
“We have a very dedicated team of music educators at OPS,” Howard said. “As a music educator, you wear many hats. In addition to teaching skills, you are planning, creating, collaborating within the district and community, and hosting numerous performances outside of school.”
Howard said the national recognition acknowledges the countless hours teachers invest in students that often go unnoticed.
“A recognition such as this honors their dedication to our students and shows gratitude for the many hours they put in that goes unseen,” she said. “In my role, I am fortunate to see what these teachers pour into our students daily. This distinction allows Owensboro to see that as well. I could not be more proud of their efforts.”
She said one of the defining strengths of the district’s music program is its focus on ensuring every student has access to music education.
“While that sounds simple enough, creating equitable access for all students involves the support of many and important work behind the scenes,” Howard said.
She said district leadership, the school board and principals have worked together to remove barriers by hiring qualified music specialists, intentionally scheduling music classes, purchasing instruments, and supporting student performances.
“Removing these challenges that other districts face allows our program to grow and flourish,” she said.
Howard hopes the recognition will continue to reinforce the value of music education throughout the community.
“I think this honor brings continued awareness to the benefits of music education for all children,” she said. “We see the lives of our students truly transform through the power of music and quality music instruction.”
She added that the lessons students gain through music extend well beyond the classroom.
“Being in a school music program is not about becoming a professional musician,” Howard said. “It is about personal growth while building grit, character, and determination, then applying that to life upon graduating from OPS. I hope our families feel a sense of pride knowing that their child is a part of something very special.”
