Newark, MD, May 13, 2025 — Worcester County Public Schools (WCPS) has once again earned national recognition for its dedication to music education by being named a 2025 Best Community for Music Education by The NAMM Foundation. This marks the seventh consecutive year that WCPS has received this prestigious distinction, which highlights school districts that excel in providing students with high-quality access to music learning opportunities.
This honor is awarded to districts that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to music education, based on a comprehensive review of factors such as program funding, student participation, instructional time, staffing, facilities, and community engagement. WCPS's submission underwent a thorough verification process and was reviewed by researchers at The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.
“Receiving this award year after year reflects the sustained excellence and unwavering support for music education across our schools,” said Tamara Mills, Coordinator of Fine and Performing Arts for WCPS. “Our students thrive when they have the opportunity to engage in music—it strengthens their cognitive, academic, and emotional development in ways that are both powerful and lasting.”
Superintendent of Schools, Mr. Louis H. Taylor, also shared, “We are incredibly proud to be recognized once again as one of the best communities for music education. This achievement is a testament to the passion and dedication of our music educators and the strong support from our families, staff, and Board of Education. Music is not an ‘extra’—it is essential to preparing well-rounded, inspired, and capable young people.”
Decades of research continue to show that music education boosts brain development, enhances memory and language skills, and contributes to stronger academic performance. Music-making has also been linked to greater social skills, including collaboration, communication, and problem-solving—skills that are critical for success in school and beyond.
About The NAMM Foundation
The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit organization supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants and its global membership. The foundation is committed to promoting lifelong engagement in music through research, philanthropy, and advocacy. For more information, visit www.nammfoundation.org.