HCPSS Continues to be Recognized as Best Community for Music Education

April 29th, 2026

HCPSS has again been named a Best Community for Music Education by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation. This is the 11th consecutive year HCPSS has received this distinction, which recognizes schools and districts nationwide for their leadership in expanding equitable 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.

“Each year, this nomination is spearheaded by one of our music teachers, Jonathan Sindler, without prompting. The fact that our educators are so eager to highlight our district is a testament to the pride they take in serving this community,” says HCPSS’ Music Coordinator Terry Eberhardt.

“We continue to find ways to break down barriers and provide equitable access,” Eberhardt adds. “Whether through our newly created courses like Modern Band or our annual Gospel Choir Festival, we are finding new ways every day to connect with the students of HCPSS. Music is a vital part of our students’ social-emotional development and academic success. Receiving this recognition for the 11th straight year is a testament to our unwavering commitment to ensuring every child in Howard County has the opportunity to find their voice and express their creativity through a high-quality music education.”

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.