Amherst Central School District named 'Best Community for Music Education'

For the eighth consecutive year, a survey conducted by a partnership of leading music and educational organizations has identified the "Best 100 Communities for Music Education in America," and the 2007 list includes Amherst Central School District for its commitment to school-based music programs.

The survey was sponsored by the NAMM Foundation and its American Music Conference division, which work to promote the benefits of active participation in music and music education.

According to the results of the "Best 100" survey, repeat recipients of the designation cite increased enrollment in, and funding for, school music programs.

While music education has been linked to higher SAT scores, math grades and future success in life, the survey also found that many students hailing from a "Best 100" community have continued their musical pursuits professionally as educators or in playing for renowned symphonies, opera houses, orchestras and on Broadway.

Thousands of teachers, school and district administrators, school board members, parents and community leaders, representing communities in all 50 states, participated in the Web-based survey.

The 2007 roster includes school districts from 31 states that are committed to quality music education programs and providing access to music education. The districts were measured across a variety of program support, curricular and programmatic criteria. Because the criteria in the survey are measured proportionally, large communities and small ones are able to participate on an equal footing.

Luehrsen encourages parents who are committed to music and arts education for their children to become active locally by supporting efforts to be sure that all children have equal access. Support for community-based advocacy is available at the Web site www.support music.com. For more information about the nationwide music education survey, visit www. amc- music. org