From participation in widely known parades across the country and beyond to performances at major events and a host of honors for students and staff, there is no doubt Cobb Schools has earned a reputation for a commitment to music education. In fact, this year marks the 20th year the NAMM Foundation has designated Cobb Schools among the Best Communities for Music Education in the nation.
That honor is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in providing music access and education to all students.
“We are so proud of the students and teachers for being recognized by the NAMM Foundation for the 20th time. This achievement speaks to the commitment, quality, and support of our music educators, students, parents, and community stakeholders in the Cobb County School District. Music education is an essential part of a complete education for students, and we thank the Cobb County School District for making it a priority each and every day,” said Chris Ferrell, the Cobb Schools Supervisor of Instrumental Music.
This year’s awards program for the Best Communities for Music Education was designed to celebrate schools and districts adapting, innovating, and persevering in the face of change. Researchers at The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas, in conjunction with The NAMM Foundation, created a new way for districts and schools to address the inroads and setbacks impacted by the pandemic, as well as goals for equity and access to music education for all students and national standards for music education in a short, qualitative survey.
“Music educators, administrators, and communi ties truly rallied to support and sustain music education through a period of intense change and adaptation. These districts and schools persevered in serving their students and communities and assured that music edu cation was part of curriculum offerings,” shares Mary Luehrsen, Executive Director of The NAMM Foundation. “We applaud the commitment and efforts of all music educators, school administrators, and community mem bers in providing students the opportunity to explore their creativity through music.”
Here are recent accolades and honors for East Cobb Schools:
- 80 Cobb students represented the District in the GMEA All-State Bands
- 52 Cobb students represented the District in the GMEA All-State Orchestras
- John Philip Sousa Foundation Bandworld Legion of Honor – Andy Esserwein, Sprayberry High School
- John Philip Sousa Foundation Bandworld Legion of Honor – John Palmer, Walton High School
- National Band Association Citation of Excellence – John Palmer, Walton High School
- National Band Association Citation of Excellence – Chris Johns, Walton High School
- Walton High School Marching Raider Band per formed in the 2022 National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade.
- Wheeler High School performed in the National Vietnam Veterans Day Parade in Hawaii.
Although nearing the end of the school year, school music programs still provide opportunities for their students to demonstrate musical talents. East Cobb’s Rocky Mount Elementary School chorus are singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” at an Atlanta Braves game on May 15.