Bellingham Public Schools Receives National Recognition for Music Education Support for 2nd Time
Bellingham Public Schools has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for their outstanding support and commitment to music education. Now in its 26th year, the Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement for providing music access and education to all students.
Two awards are given each year: Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) for school districts and the SupportMusic Merit Award (SMMA) for individual school sites. Both reach K-12 schools and districts throughout the U.S. and offer opportunities to increase awareness and support for music programs. Over 1,000 districts and individual school sites (public, private, charter, parochial) were recognized for having the highest commitment to producing exceptional music programs.
Dr. Peter Marano, Superintendent of Bellingham Schools says, “Music education is not just an enrichment—it’s a foundation of a well-rounded education. In Bellingham, we have seen firsthand how music fosters creativity, builds confidence, and strengthens community. It empowers our students to express themselves, connect with others, and thrive both academically and personally. The impact is profound and lasting, and we are proud to continue investing in programs that inspire all students.”
Marie Forte, the Fine Arts Department Coordinator, states, “This is the second time in as many years that we have been recognized with this distinction - it is a great honor! This award is a credit to the entire Bellingham community and validates how we support and collaborate to provide a strong music education experience for our students. This recognition is awarded annually, so we need to make sure we continue to serve the Bellingham students in the best way possible, even through anticipated challenging budget years ahead. The Bellingham community has always been a strong supporter of the arts, this recognition says thank you to all the families and citizens who support our concerts, fundraisers, have volunteered their time, voted in favor of school budget presentations and who show up for our music program in many different ways. I want to also thank all our alumni - we continue to build the tradition and legacy that they have set here in Bellingham.”
To qualify for the Best Communities designation, Fine Arts Department Coordinator Marie Forte 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 leading arts educational research firm, WolfBrown.
Bellingham Public Schools has a comprehensive music education program where students receive formal instruction from highly qualified music educators in grades K - 12. Throughout the program, music instruction is focused on interactive, engaging music-making through drumming, Orff instruments, recorders, ukulele, singing, instrumental music and more. Students participate in choral singing beginning at the elementary level and continue at Bellingham Memorial and High School. At the 5th grade level, students can begin their instrumental music experience with traditional band instruments. In addition to all the core academic course offerings, Bellingham offers a variety of co-curricular activities such as Jazz Band, Marching Band, Color Guard, Chamber Music, Percussion Ensemble and a free Summer Music Camp to name a few. With strong support and advocacy from the Bellingham Friends of Music, scholarships are offered throughout the year for music lessons, summer music opportunities, visiting clinicians and field trips to see professional performances. The Bellingham Music program is thankful for the strong support of the School Committee, School Administration and community partners that have made our music program note-worthy and a meaningful program for the youth of Bellingham.
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 www.nammfoundation.org.
