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PHARR – For the fifth year in a row, PSJA ISD has been honored with the 2019 Best Communities for Music Education national designation from the NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education.
The Best Communities Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students. To qualify for the Best Communities designation, districts must answer detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses are verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.
This award recognizes PSJA ISD’s efforts in leading the way with music learning opportunities as outlined in the new federal education legislation, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). The legislation, signed into law in December 2015, and awaiting state implementation designates music and the arts as important elements of a well-rounded education for all children.
At PSJA ISD, students can participate in the following superior music programs: Band, Orchestra, Choir, Jazz Band and Mariachi.
Due to the district’s commitment to providing quality music education opportunities, PSJA ISD has recently earned numerous music accolades which include the PSJA Early College High School Bear Band advancing to the UIL State Marching Contest; four high schools advancing to UIL State in Theatrical Design; two high schools advancing to the UIL State Film Contest; three groups advancing to the All-State Choir Competition, and two art students advancing to the State VASE Contest. In addition, over 377 band, choir, and orchestra students advanced to the UIL State Solo & Ensemble Contest.
“We take pride in providing quality fine arts opportunities for our Pre-K through 12th-grade students,” said PSJA ISD Director of Fine Arts Jon Taylor. “PSJA ISD’s Fine Arts programs continue to grow, and this wouldn’t be possible without the continued support of our board of trustees and administration.”
