The Wauwatosa School District has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation for its outstanding support and commitment to music education. This is the eighth year in a row the district has earned this award.
Now in its 27th year, the 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.
The award reaches K-12 communities nationwide, offering both recognition and momentum to strengthen and expand music education programs. In 2026, more than 1,000 school districts and schools—including public, private, charter and parochial institutions—have been recognized for outstanding achievement in providing access to high-quality music education.
“Receiving this designation for the eighth consecutive year is a testament to our district’s unwavering dedication to nurturing the artistic and intellectual growth of our students through music,” Superintendent Dr. Demond Means said. “Music education is not just an enrichment; it is a vital component of a well-rounded curriculum that fosters creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. This recognition not only celebrates our past achievements but also propels us forward, reinforcing our commitment to providing equitable access to high-quality music education for all students in the Wauwatosa School District.”
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 nammfoundation.org.