Katy ISD Named “2018 Best Communities for Music Education”  

KATY [April 24, 2018] – For the 15th year, Katy Independent School District has received the “Best Communities for Music Education” designation from the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education.  

Katy ISD is leading the way with music learning opportunities as outlined in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).  The District understands the importance of providing music education as part of the curriculum and knows the vital role music plays in the overall success of students in school and in life.

“Receiving this recognition for more than a decade speaks for the passion of our music teachers, coordinators and everyone who makes our music programs thrive at Katy ISD,” said Executive Director of Fine Arts Mike Ouellette.  “Music education is an integral part of learning and we are fortunate to provide our community with one of the best programs in the nation.”

In a series of landmark studies, by scientists and researchers at Northwestern University, a link was found between students in community music programs and life-long academic successes, including higher high school graduation rates and college attendance.  Other studies explain the benefits of early exposure to music education improves how the brain processes and assimilates sounds, a trait that lasts well into adulthood.

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, Katy ISD answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and community music-making programs.  Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.