The prestigious NAMM distinction is awarded to school districts across the United States that demonstrate special achievement in efforts to provide Music access and education to all students. It highlights student involvement, rigor of instruction, professionalism of the Music faculty, and overall community engagement. RVCSD is one of 935 school districts nationwide to receive this accolade. 

To qualify, the District answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, Music class participation, instruction time, facilities, and support for the Music programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by the Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.

According to Rondout Valley High School Music teacher and Unified Arts Liaison Randolph Loder, the District’s thriving Music program is a collaborative effort. “I have an immense amount of gratitude for my fellow Music teachers, all of the administrators, the Board of Education, and our community,” he said. “It takes a village to raise a child, and it also takes a village to create the robust Music education program that we have here at Rondout Valley. The arts truly change lives.” 

Superintendent Dr. Paul Spadaro added, “The award highlights the District’s leadership in providing meaningful learning opportunities, aligning with the Every Student Succeeds Act’s emphasis on Music and the arts as essential components of a well-rounded education for every child.”