For the first time, Castleberry ISD has been honored with the “Best Communities for Music Education” designation from The NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education. Now in its 24th 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.
Castleberry ISD is proud to be among 4% of school districts nationwide who received the prestigious award this year. Additionally, Castleberry ISD is one of only three 4A districts in Texas to earn this esteemed recognition.
“Being counted among the Best Communities in the nation for music education is a testament to how Castleberry ISD values and supports music education in our wonderful district,” said Steven Moss, Castleberry ISD fine arts director.
To qualify for the Best Communities designation, Castleberry ISD 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 by school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.
Castleberry ISD is home to an impressive performing arts community, with 65% of the 3,710 students enrolled in at least one music class this school year. The district’s talented musicians have been making waves in the world of music education and setting records this year.
Mariachi Los Leones, Castleberry High School’s varsity level mariachi ensemble, made history this year by advancing to the 2023 UIL State Mariachi Festival and earning a Superior (Division I) rating. Additionally, the varsity wind ensemble earned straight 1’s at the 2023 UIL Region 30 Concert and Sight-Reading Contest, securing their place at the 2024 UIL State Wind Ensemble Festival. These impressive achievements are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of Castleberry ISD’s students and educators.
“Music education is an integral component of our students' academic and personal growth, and the district is committed to providing our students with a comprehensive music program,” emphasized Renee Smith-Faulkner, Castleberry ISD superintendent. “Starting in pre-kindergarten, all elementary students participate in music and art through fifth grade. Our district recognizes the profound benefits of participating in the performing arts and is dedicated to ensuring our students have access to this invaluable resource.”
Music education has numerous benefits for children, including improved speech and reading scores, higher high school graduation and college attendance rates, stronger everyday listening skills, and enhanced neural processing of sound later in life. Additionally, music education teaches conflict resolution, teamwork skills, and how to give and receive constructive criticism.