In recognition of its outstanding commitment to music education, the Moreno Valley Unified School District has been designated a "Best Community for Music Education'' by the NAMM Foundation, one of 830 school districts in the nation.
“We are extremely happy about this award,” said Superintendent Dr. Martinrex Kedziora. “We continuously seek ways to expand our programs in visual and performing arts to offer a variety of opportunities for our students.”
The 2023 Best Communities for Music Education program recognizes school districts and schools across 43 states for the outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community leaders and their support for music education as part of a well-rounded education for all children.
“Music education, as part of a well-rounded education, has never been more important to unleash students’ creativity and supports emotional health and well-being as they build connections through music activities,” shares Mary Luehrsen, Executive Director of The NAMM Foundation.
“We applaud the administrators, teachers, and communities who support and sustain music education through a period of intense change and are committed to music education so that all children can explore and express themselves through music.”
This year's awards program acknowledges and celebrates innovative schools and districts that have developed a stronger presence for music education on campus and in the lives of students.
“We thank our staff, families, and community members for supporting our programs year-round,” said School Board President Susan Smith. “None of this could be possible without the support of a collective community that believes in our students.”
The Moreno Valley Unified School District offers several music programs across the district. One of the newest programs this year that combines several focus areas is the development of an official student tour band.
The “MVUSD Tour Band” was officially introduced to the district and community at the district’s annual State of the District in January of 2023. Since then, it has performed at local and county events and will continue to grow through the support of the board of education, superintendent, district leadership, school administrators, staff, families, and the community.