District marks eighth consecutive year of Best Communities for Music Education Award from The NAMM Foundation

May 28, 2026
Rutherford County Schools

For the eighth consecutive year, Rutherford County Schools has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education Award from The NAMM Foundation for its outstanding support and commitment to music education.

Now in its 27th year, the awards program continues to spotlight and celebrate school districts and individual schools across the United States for their exemplary dedication to music education and their ongoing efforts to ensure equitable access to music learning as part of a well-rounded education.

“Rutherford County Schools is proud to offer music education opportunities at every grade level,” said RCS Fine Arts Coordinator Dr. Lindsay Halford. “This award recognizes and honors our community’s commitment to supporting music programs that inspire students’ creativity, confidence, and pursuit of excellence.”

Boy practiving drums with sheet music

In 2026, more than 1,000 school districts and schools — including public, private, charter and parochial — have been recognized for outstanding achievement in providing access to high-quality music education.

Recipients of the 2026 BCME Awards were selected through a comprehensive application and review process that evaluates key indicators, including funding, instructional time, participation rates, facilities and community support. To uphold the program’s rigor and credibility, all applications were independently reviewed and verified by WolfBrown, a leading research and evaluation firm specializing in education and the arts.

About The NAMM Foundation

The NAMM Foundation is the charitable arm of the National Association of Music Merchants, the global trade association for the music products industry. The foundation works to remove systemic barriers that limit access to music-making and career pathways in the music industry. By investing in bold ideas and innovative solutions, we strive to build inclusive and thriving musical communities. For more information about The NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.

Riverdale High School

Riverdale High School

Rutherford County Schools earns national recognition as music education champion