MVUSD tour band student playing the drums.
MVUSD tour band student playing the drums. Credit: MVUSD.net

Asante-Ra

The Moreno Valley Unified School District has been recognized for its exceptional commitment to music education by the NAMM foundation, earning the 2023 title of “Best Community for Music Education”  among 830 school districts across the United States. 

The NAMM foundation’s recognition highlights the efforts of teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community leaders who support music education as part of a well-rounded education for all children. Superintendent Dr. Martinrex Kedziora expressed his joy in receiving the award, saying, “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 focuses on schools and districts that have made a significant impact in developing a stronger music education presence on their campuses and in their students’ lives.

Mary Luehrsen, Executive Director of The NAMM Foundation, believes that music is a vital component of a well-rounded education, and emphasizes that it supports emotional health and well-being while also unleashing students’ creativity. “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,” she said. 

The 2023 Best Communities for Music Education program focuses on schools and districts that have made a significant impact in developing a stronger music education presence on their campuses and in their students’ lives. The School Board President Susan Smith expressed gratitude for the communal effort, saying, “We thank our staff, families and community members for supporting our programs year-round.”

Moreno Valley Unified School District boasts several music programs across the district, including their newest addition, the “MVUSD Tour Band”. Introduced at the district’s annual State of the District in January 2023, the student tour band has since performed at local and county events. The district is committed to the growth and development of this program with the support of the board of education, superintendent, district leadership, school administrators, staff, families, and the community.

Overall, the Moreno Valley Unified School District’s recognition as a “Best Community for Music Education” highlights their dedication to providing a comprehensive education that includes music and the arts.

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