The NAMM Foundation presents “Building a Nationally-Recognized Music Program: It’s All About Collaborative Structures,” an educational program only available at The NAMM Show this June.
The hour-long presentation features music program leaders from three of The NAMM Foundation’s Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) districts as they “share strategies about how to create a collaborative culture within learning communities.” The strategies, including areas of building professional learning communities, developing strategic arts plans, and fostering relationships to cultivate vibrant and dynamic music programs, when applied, have netted outstanding and nationally recognized music education programs.
BCME is a signature program of The NAMM Foundation and is in its 23rd year. 2022 saw the recognition of 738 school districts and 80 schools across 44 states for the “outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community leaders and their support for music education as part of a well-rounded education for all children.”
Panelists include Facilitator of Fine & Performing Arts for Stafford County Public Schools (SCPS), Annamarie Bollino; Dr. Lance Nielsen, Supervisor of Music for Lincoln Public Schools; and Coordinator for Bakersfield City School District’s Visual and Performing Arts Department, Michael Stone.
The Stafford County Public Schools has earned the distinction for its fourth year. Bollino reports that the success of its music program is directly attributed to the district's “strong music educators, phenomenal students, supportive parents, community, school board, and division leadership.” On their continuous recognition for superior music education, she said, “It is an honor to be named a Best Community for Music Education. Our staff and community strive to provide students with a high-quality music education that meets the needs and interests of our diverse student population. We continue to improve and innovate, so it means a lot to be recognized for our work and commitment to the students and family of SCPS.”
The Lincoln Public Schools has earned its seventh year of distinction as a BCME district. Nielsen reflected on the honor saying, “I am personally proud of the hard work of our music teachers. Lincoln, Nebraska, is a community that values the arts because it enriches lives, artistically and economically. BCME recognition is not just something for Lincoln Public Schools to celebrate – it is for all of Lincoln to be proud of.” Nielsen shared that he continuously collaborates alongside Bollino and Stone. The trio conceptualized this presentation to provide three unique perspectives of success stories within their respective school districts and to provide helpful tips for administrators, department chairs, and teachers who may be on their own inside their schools. “We hope our experiences and success can be helpful for other schools who are looking to expand their music education opportunities in their own communities,” says Nielsen.
To attend “Building a Nationally-Recognized Music Program: It’s All About Collaborative Structures,” be sure to register for The NAMM Show.
Building a Nationally-Recognized Music Program: It's All About Collaborative Structures
Presented by Annamarie Bollino, Stafford County Public Schools; Michael Stone, Bakersfield City School District and Dr. Lance Nielsen Lincoln Public Schools
Saturday, June 4 • 2-3 pm PT
ACC, Level 2, 206 B
Check if your school district or school has been named a Best Community for Music Education. If you are interested in participating in a Best Communities celebration event, download the PR Toolkit