The Ithaca City School District (ICSD) has once again been named one of the Best Communities for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation, marking the district’s 15th consecutive year receiving this national honor. The designation recognizes school districts across the country that demonstrate exceptional achievement in providing access to high-quality music education for all students.
To qualify, the ICSD completed a comprehensive review process that examines funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses are verified by school officials and independently reviewed by WolfBrown, a leading research and evaluation firm specializing in education and the arts.
“We are thrilled to receive this award again for the 15th consecutive year,” Director of Fine and Performing Arts Daphne Shululu said.“ It is truly a testament of the exceptional talents of our music teachers and students, plus the extraordinary commitment and support of our caregivers and community.”
This continued recognition reflects not only the strength of the ICSD music program but also the district’s broader commitment to expanding opportunities in the fine and performing arts. Over the past year, the district has made measurable progress in growing student engagement:
37.1 percent of students participate in choir, band, or orchestra at the secondary level, up from 35.1 percent last year
66.7 percent of elementary students participate in band and orchestra, up from 65.8 percent
Black student participation increased to 50.3 percent, up from 46.4 percent—the largest increase across all student groups
These gains reflect ongoing efforts to remove barriers, expand access, and create more inclusive pathways for students to engage in music education across grade levels.
Student achievement has also been recognized at the regional, state, and national levels. This year, ICSD students were selected for prestigious ensembles, including the American Choral Directors Association Eastern Honor Choir and the NYSSMA Junior High Area All-State Festival, while DeWitt Middle School students earned spots in the New York Band Directors Association (NYSBDA) Statewide Honor Band.
In total, the ICSD hosted 58 performing arts events this year, including concerts, theatrical productions, and art exhibitions that showcased student talent and strengthened connections with the broader community.
The ICSD’s Fine and Performing Arts Department recognizes that the study of music, art, and theater inspires learning, critical thinking, identity development, and strong communities. Research continues to support the educational/cognitive and social skill benefits for children who make music: After two years of music education, researchers found that participants showed more substantial improvements in how the brain processes speech and reading scores than students who are not involved in music education.
Thank you to our staff, students, and community for continuing to support the Fine and Performing Arts Department.