Newton County Schools (NCS) has once again been recognized among the nation’s leaders in music education, earning the 2026 Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) Award from the NAMM Foundation. This marks the second consecutive year the district has received this prestigious national honor.
Now in its 27th year, the BCME program celebrates school districts and individual schools across the United States that demonstrate exceptional achievement in providing music access and education for all students. In 2026, more than 1,000 districts and schools—including public, private, charter and parochial institutions—were recognized for their dedication to music learning as part of a well-rounded education.
“Earning this recognition for the second year in a row speaks volumes about the strength and consistency of our music programs across Newton County Schools,” said Kitonya Morrow, humanities instructional Specialist for NCS. “This honor reflects a shared commitment—from our educators and students to our families and community partners—to ensure that music remains an essential part of every child’s educational experience. We are proud to continue creating opportunities for students to explore, perform, and grow through music.”
Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley, III emphasized the broader impact of music education on student success.
“Being recognized again at the national level affirms the intentional work happening in our schools every day,” Bradley said. “Music education plays an important role in developing the whole child—fostering creativity, discipline, and confidence. This continued recognition reflects not only the talent of our students, but also the dedication of our educators and the strong support of a community that values the arts.”
Newton County Board of Education Chair Abigail Coggin noted the importance of sustained investment in the arts.
“This back-to-back recognition is something our entire community can take pride in,” said Mrs. Coggin. “As a board, we remain committed to ensuring all students have access to meaningful opportunities that inspire learning and personal growth. Music education continues to be a powerful part of that experience, and this honor reflects the incredible work happening across our district.”
Recipients of the BCME Award are selected through a rigorous application and review process that evaluates key indicators such as funding, instructional time, participation rates, facilities, and community support. To ensure the integrity of the program, all submissions are independently reviewed and verified by WolfBrown, a leading research and evaluation firm specializing in education and the arts.
The NAMM Foundation, the charitable arm of the National Association of Music Merchants, works to advance active participation in music-making across the lifespan. Through strategic investments and partnerships, the foundation supports efforts to remove barriers to access and expand opportunities for students to engage in music education and pursue related career pathways.
This continued national recognition highlights Newton County Schools’ dedication to fostering creativity, supporting the arts, and providing students with meaningful learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom.
