Northampton County Public Schools earns National Music Education Honor for third straight year

Northampton County Public Schools has been recognized for the third consecutive year with the Best Communities for Music Education Award from The NAMM Foundation.

The national award honors school divisions and individual schools across the country for their support of music education and their efforts to provide students with equitable access to music as part of a well-rounded education.

Now in its 27th year, the Best Communities for Music Education program evaluates applicants on several factors, including funding, instructional time, student participation, facilities and community support. Applications are independently reviewed by WolfBrown, a research and evaluation firm specializing in education and the arts.

“Music education helps students not only academically, but emotionally as well,” said Megan Gallagher, music teacher at Kiptopeke Elementary School.

Brad Ford, Director of Bands at Northampton Middle and High Schools, said the recognition places Northampton among a small group of school divisions in Virginia and across the nation.

“This is a true milestone for our schools, and I want to congratulate everyone and thank our community for always standing behind our music programs,” Ford said.

Northampton County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Lisa Martin said earning the award three years in a row reflects the strength of the division’s music program.

“Earning this recognition three years in a row is a well-deserved honor and a powerful testament to our program’s leadership, instructional excellence, and sustained commitment to providing meaningful opportunities for our students,” Martin said. “Music is vital to our educational mission, and this award reinforces our commitment to keeping arts education thriving.”

The NAMM Foundation says the award is designed to spotlight school communities that demonstrate a strong commitment to music learning. Research cited by music education advocates has linked strong music programs to academic, cognitive and social-emotional benefits for students.

Northampton County Public Schools said the recognition reinforces its commitment to arts education and to preparing students for success in school and beyond.