For the fifth consecutive year, the Orange City School District has earned the distinction of "Best Community For Music Education" from the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM). The lengthy application process looks at staffing, scheduling, community support, and other resources available to enhance music education.

While the process is pretty tedious, Brandon DuVall, Orange Schools Director of Bands and District Music Coordinator, said, “it was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the countless ways our music program is supported by the school and community. We (the Orange Schools Music Department) are thankful for all of your continued support of music education in the Orange City Schools.”

In an email to the Orange Schools Music Department, the NAMM Foundation stated, “Your collective efforts-teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community leaders-have been instrumental in making music part of a well-rounded education for every child. We applaud your community's unwavering commitment to creating an environment where each child can learn and grow with music.”

Now in its 25th year, the Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement for providing music access and education to all students. Responses were verified by school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas. The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit that advances active participation in music making across the lifespan by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving, and public service programs.