For the sixth 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.

Now in its 27th year, the award recognizes and celebrates school districts and individual schools across the United States for their exemplary dedication to music education and their ongoing efforts to ensure equitable access to music learning as part of a well-rounded education. Recipients are selected through a rigorous application and review process that evaluates key indicators including district support, instructional time, participation rates, facilities and community support. All applications are independently reviewed and verified by WolfBrown, a leading research and evaluation firm specializing in education and the arts. This thorough process ensures that recognition reflects measurable achievement and sustained commitment.