April 7, 2021
The NAMM Foundation has named Pinellas County Schools one of the 2021 Best Communities for Music Education.
This is the second year in a row that Pinellas has received this honor. The designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to providing music access and education to all students. Just five Florida districts earned this designation.
The award recognizes that Pinellas County Schools is leading the way with learning opportunities outlined in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). Award criteria include funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and community music-making programs. The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit foundation that advances active participation in music.
PreK-12 Performing Arts Specialist Ajori Spencer praised educators and the community for their support.
“This award is a testament to the extraordinary work our music teachers do each and every day,” Spencer said. “We have a community that not only values music education, but values investing resources into strengthening and growing our strong music programs. This is evident with the continued support of our Pinellas County Schools Referendum.”
Since 2004, the community has supported the Pinellas County Schools Referendum, which helps fund equitable art and music programs throughout the school district. The district's strong music programs include elementary school music in all schools, nationally recognized band and choral programs in all middle and high schools, music technology programs at many schools, and guitar programs at most high schools and some middle schools. Pinellas also offers orchestra programs at select elementary, middle and high schools.
