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Heading into summer break on a high note, Elgin Independent School District has received national recognition for its commitment to music education.
The Best Communities for Music Education designation from The National Association of Music Merchants Foundation, now in its 26th year, honors school districts that demonstrate exceptional achievement in providing access to comprehensive music education for all students.
This year, more than 1,000 districts and individual school sites across the U.S. were recognized for their dedication to fostering strong music programs—Elgin ISD joins this group for its outstanding support of music instruction at every grade level, according to the organization.
“Music education in Elgin ISD helps provide inspiration, initiate a child’s work ethic and spark creativity and self-expression,” said Alyson Keller, director of fine arts and advanced academics. “It helps our young people discover at an early age the magic of working together toward a common goal and discovering what makes them truly unique.”
Keller said the designation highlights not only the talents of Elgin ISD’s teachers and students, but also the broader community’s investment in music education.
“From musical theatre to mariachi, our students can find a creative outlet, belonging and purpose during their educational journey from kindergarten to graduation,” she said. “This is an achievement that reflects the district, parents and community partners all coming together to support our children.”
To qualify, Elgin ISD completed a comprehensive questionnaire covering areas such as funding, graduation requirements, student participation, instruction time, facilities and community involvement. Responses were reviewed and verified by school officials and analyzed by an arts education research firm.
