WCS recognized nationally for music education programs

WARREN/STERLING HEIGHTS/TROY — The music education programs in Warren Consolidated Schools are hitting the right notes.

The district was recently honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation.

The Best Communities for Music Education selection is awarded to school districts that display outstanding achievement to provide music access and education to all students.

“The benefits of music education for students is immense,” the district’s Chief Academic Officer David Meengs said in a prepared statement. “Warren Consolidated Schools is fortunate to have a team of music educators who work tirelessly to offer music education in our schools.”

Music education is offered at all WCS elementary, middle and high schools. Several music educators filled out the application to apply for NAMM recognition.

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, a team of music educators from WCS answered questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities and more. Responses were verified by school officials and reviewed by the Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.

“We were excited we got chosen. This reinforces our kids are getting the best quality in music education,” Cousino High School Band Director Jason Rose said. “It recognizes our district is on the right track and how the teachers each support education. I’m really happy that Warren Consolidated Schools was recognized. Our administration does put a lot of faith and resources in us to make sure we’re successful.”

Music instruction is offered in grades K-5, and each middle school has bands at each grade level. While in high school, students can participate in concert, jazz and marching bands.

“We want our students to learn to love and appreciate music. They start to see music is valued,” Rose said. “I get to see these kids grow and become adults.”

While many of the district’s students don’t pursue music professionally, Rose added, “We want them to develop other skills that will be beneficial.”

That includes leadership, determination, goal setting, social skills and the importance of practicing.

Rose, a saxophonist and clarinet player, has had a small group of students go onto careers in music, including those who have become band directors at local high schools.

WCS was among approximately 1,000 school districts in the country awarded the Best Communities for Music Education designation, including several from Michigan. This year marks the 25th year the NAMM Foundation has celebrated the Best Communities for Music Education.