The prestigious NAMM distinction is awarded to school districts across the United States for their exemplary dedication to music education and their ongoing efforts to ensure equitable access to music learning as part of a well-rounded education.

Rondout Valley High School student Hudson Paley has first-hand knowledge of how the District’s Music program has benefited students. “As a senior, I’ve seen how the Music program brings younger students together and helps them connect with us upperclassmen,” he said. “It’s also shown me how music can help people from all different backgrounds discover who they truly are.”  

The award is open to Kindergarten-Grade 12 school communities nationwide, offering both recognition and momentum to strengthen and expand music education programs. Rondout Valley is among approximately 1,000 school districts that have been recognized for outstanding achievement in providing access to high-quality music education.

To qualify, the District completed a comprehensive application and review process that evaluated key indicators, including funding, instructional time, participation rates, facilities, and community support. All applications were independently reviewed and verified by WolfBrown, a leading research and evaluation firm specializing in education and the arts.

Rondout Valley High School Band Director and the Unified Arts Liaison Randy Loder is thrilled that the District’s Music program is once again being recognized. “Being honored with the Best Communities for Music Education for eight years in a row is a humbling honor,” he said. “I am so proud to be part of the Rondout Valley family. Our community is very special, and this is a great example of what we can accomplish together for these children. The experiences that they have in our Music program will stay with them; the arts change lives.”