The Farmingdale School District has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education. In its 24th year, the Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.
To qualify for the Best Communities designation, Director of Fine and Performing Arts Greg Warnokowski answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.
“Receiving this award is a testament to the culture of pride that the Farmingdale music program is within our community. Only through our teachers’ dedication, talent, and commitment keeps our music program strong and continuing to grow. Special thanks to our community, parents, school administration, and Board of Education for their commitment to music education and ensuring that it is part of a complete education for the children of the Farmingdale School District,” said Warnokowski.
Since the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in 2015 and a stated emphasis on a well-rounded education, many school districts have re-committed to music and arts education programs. During the pandemic, music and arts programs were vital to keeping students engaged in school. ESSA provides designated funding for well-rounded educational opportunities through Title IV Part A Student Academic Success and Achievement grants. NAMM Foundation research has revealed that school districts use these grants to address instructional gaps in access to music and arts education.