Norristown, PA – 23 April 2026 – Norristown Area School District (NASD) has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) Award from The NAMM Foundation for their outstanding support and commitment to music education. Now in its 27th year, the program continues to spotlight and celebrate 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.
The award reaches K-12 communities nationwide, offering both recognition and momentum to strengthen and expand music education programs. In 2026, more than 1,000 school districts and schools—including public, private, charter and parochial institutions—have been recognized for outstanding achievement in providing access to high-quality music education.
“Earning recognition as one of the Best Communities for Music Education for the 11th consecutive year is a tremendous honor and source of pride for our entire district,” said Superintendent of Schools Christopher Dormer. “This award reflects the dedication of our students, the passion of our music educators, the support of our families, and our community’s unwavering belief that the arts are essential to a well-rounded education. Music inspires creativity, builds confidence, and creates connections that last a lifetime. We are proud to continue fostering opportunities where each and every student can thrive through the power of music.”
NASD’s District Music Liaison, Dr. Barbara Weikert shares, “Our mission is to encourage and facilitate the study, creation, and performance of music by providing each and every student the opportunity to learn, share, and participate in culturally and globally diverse musical experiences. We are grateful for the tremendous support we have for music education which benefits our students and community.”
“Music education is important to us because it gives us inspiration and a sense of happiness, belonging, and safety,” shared 6th grader Tonancy M.
Jhalia D., also a 6th grader, emphasized the cultural significance of music, sharing simply that “music is cultural.” Eduardo M., another 6th grade student, added that he loves music because “it brings a sense of happiness and comfort.”
Fern K., a vocalist and percussionist, shared that the music program “makes me feel safe and gives me a sense of belonging.”
Violinist and 6th grader Alexa M. reflected on the impact of music in everyday life, noting, “Music is life—our whole life has a soundtrack.”
Recipients of the 2026 BCME Awards were selected through a comprehensive application and review process that evaluates key indicators, including funding, instructional time, participation rates, facilities and community support. To uphold the program’s rigor and credibility, all applications were independently reviewed and verified by WolfBrown, a leading research and evaluation firm specializing in education and the arts.
About Norristown Area School District
Norristown Area School District (NASD) is a diverse public school district in the heart of Montgomery County in southeastern Pennsylvania, serving close to 7,400 students across the Municipality of Norristown, East Norriton Township, and West Norriton Township. The district takes great pride in its investments in educational programs and opportunities, including the addition of nearly 195 new staff positions in the last five years. NASD is proud to be committed to welcoming and inclusive school communities where each and every student, family, and staff member are valued, respected, and safe. NASD has been designated as a “Best Community for Music Education” for eleven consecutive years and an “Outstanding Visual Arts Community” for the last three years, with several schools recognized as “Best Schools” by U.S. News & World Report. NASD is also a member of the League of Innovative Schools, and has been recognized as a Great PA School by the Pennsylvania School Boards Association’s Great Pennsylvania Schools Program.
Press Contact
Jillian Williamson | Communications Coordinator
Norristown Area School District
About The NAMM Foundation
The NAMM Foundation is the charitable arm of the National Association of Music Merchants, the global trade association for the music products industry. The foundation works to remove systemic barriers that limit access to music-making and career pathways in the music industry. By investing in bold ideas and innovative solutions, we strive to build inclusive and thriving musical communities. For more information about The NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.
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