For the eighth time in the last nine years, GCISD has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The National Association of Music Merchants Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education. Now in its 23rd year, the Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.
"I am so proud of GCISD for their continued support of music education, and all the fine arts, in our schools," said Dr. Paul Sikes, GCISD Director of Fine Arts. "We know that kids are more engaged, enjoy school more, and make better grades when they are part of a high-quality fine arts program. With only 738 school districts across the country meeting the criteria for this recognition, this honor shows the commitment the entire community has to ensuring all students have the opportunity to better their lives through music education."
GCISD answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and community music-making programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.