The Lakeland School System (LSS) has been recognized by NAMM Foundation with the “Best Communities for Music Education” designation for outstanding commitment to music education.
Founded in 2006, the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) represents the generosity and philanthropy of the music products industry. It is funded through trade association activities and donations.
Dr. Ted Horrell, LSS superintendent said of the honor, “”Music education has been an important point of emphasis at both Lakeland Elementary School (LES) and Lakeland Middle Preparatory School (LMPS), and we couldn’t be more proud of our incredible students and staff for earning this national recognition.”
The recognition is bestowed to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provided music access and education to all students, said Dr. Horrell.
“To qualify for the Best Communities designation, the staff at LSS answered detailed questions about funding, academic requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities and community support for our music programs,” said Dr. Horrell. “Responses were verified and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.”
The Foundation selected 623 districts and 98 individual schools to be honored. Alongside Lakeland in Shelby County were Bartlett City Schools, Germantown Municipal School District and Shelby County Schools.
Link to schools selected: https://www.nammfoundation.org/what-we-do/best-communities-music-education .
Musical choices at LMPS include 5th Grade Mane Melody Singers, 6th Grade Choir and Concert Choir; Beginning and Concert Orchestra; and Beginning, Concert and Jazz Bands.
At LES, there are music classes for all students along with a Guitar Club and the Glee Club.
