HCPSS Recognized as Best Community for Music Education for Tenth Consecutive Year

May 21st, 2025

For the 10th consecutive year, HCPSS has been identified as a Best Community for Music Education by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation. The award recognizes outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders who have made music education part of a well-rounded education. Selections are made to districts and schools that demonstrate an exceptionally high commitment and access to music education.

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, HCPSS answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and community music-making programs.

“This prestigious recognition is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our teachers, who passionately ensure that every student discovers their place within our vibrant music programs. It is through their high-caliber instruction that our students find not just musical skill, but a true sense of belonging,” says Terry Eberhardt, HCPSS’ Music coordinator. “Howard County’s thriving arts ecosystem, nurtured by the collaborative spirit of teachers, students, families, administrators, and community partners, creates an exceptional environment where the arts flourish.”

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.

More information and additional best communities are available online.