Ann Arbor orchestra teacher Joe DeMarsh conducts during a rehearsal at Tappan Middle School on Jan. 17.
Melanie Maxwell I AnnArbor.com file photo
It is a designation awarded annually by the National Association of Music Merchants' nonprofit group, the NAMM Foundation.
Ten other districts from Michigan also were recognized, including Bloomfield Hills Schools, Dearborn Public Schools and Pinckney Community Schools.
The Best Communities for Music Education program acknowledges schools and districts nationwide for their commitment to and support of music education, according to its website. The distinction is given to schools based on survey participation.
Nearly 2,000 districts and schools took part in the 2013 program, answering detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, financial support for the music program and other relevant factors in the community's music education program, the website says. According to the NAMM foundation, the information submitted is verified by district officials and advisory organizations, both of which review the data collected in the survey.
Schools were chosen for the Best Communities award based on their ability to demonstrate a budgetary commitment to music; a variety of opportunities for students to learn music; the presence of highly qualified, certified music teachers; an adherence to state and national standards; and a wealth of performance experiences and competition opportunities offered.
The NAMM Foundation's mission is advancing active participation in music-making across all ages by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving and public service programs from the international music products industry.
Danielle Arndt covers K-12 education for AnnArbor.com. Follow her on Twitter @DanielleArndt or email her at daniellearndt@annarbor.com.