For the 10th year in a row, Ector County ISD is being recognized as one of the Best Communities for Music Education, an award given by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation.
It is a prestigious distinction given to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement for providing music access and education to all students.
It takes a comprehensive look at the music program; from funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and community music-making programs.
“We are incredibly proud to receive the Best Communities for Music award, which is a testament to the dedication and talent of our music educators,” Aaron Hawley, ECISD Executive Director of Fine Arts, said in a news release.
“Their unwavering commitment to nurturing our students’ musical abilities has created a vibrant and enriching environment for all. This recognition highlights the exceptional work happening in our schools and the profound impact it has on our community.”
Among the attributes that set ECISD’s fine arts program apart are:
• Permian High School has qualified for the UIL State Marching Contest for the past three years
>> Odessa High School has earned Superior Division ratings at the UIL Regional Marching Contest for a state-record 84 consecutive years
>> Annually, ECISD produces Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) All-State Musicians, an elite honor signifying a student is among the best, individually, in the state
>> ECISD students consistently earn top ratings at UIL concert/sightreading evaluation
>> The harp program is one of the few programs of its kind in Texas
>> An elementary strings program is beginning its third year, and showcased 300 students at last year’s elementary strings concert
>> All elementary students receive music instruction weekly
The Best Communities for Music Education award considers the ways students are taught to create, perform, and respond to music. It also takes into account the opportunities provided to students to be part of music programs outside the school day such as music camps and academies offered by other organizations.
Currently, 8,505 students from grades 6th through 12th are involved in all ECISD fine arts programs, this includes performance and visual arts.
