Bay Village named ‘Best Community for Music Education' for 21st year

The Bay High School Band, Choirs and Orchestra were all recently recognized at statewide contests, contributing to the district being named a "Best Community for Music Education." Photo courtesy Bay Village Schools

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Standards for inclusion on the prestigious Best Communities for Music Education list have increased consistently over the last two decades, but the Bay Village City School District has once again been honored for its exemplary music program. First recognized with the distinction in 2003 – and each year since – Bay Village Schools is among just 830 districts nationwide, and 47 Ohio school districts, identified for this national honor by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation for 2023.

The distinction takes on added significance again this year since music education – perhaps more than any other school subject – was affected by pandemic protocol that included masking and social distancing the last two years.

“I applaud the commitment of our music educators, who provide our students with not only a learning opportunity, but also a creative outlet to explore and express their creativity and talent,” said Superintendent Scot Prebles. “I also know that without the support of our families and residents, including the Bay Music Boosters, this award would not be possible.”

Music instructors at the Bay Village City School District are: Darren Allen (Bay Middle School and Bay High School instrumental music); Mark Awad (Bay Middle School instrumental music); Dr. E. James Kotora Jr. (Normandy Elementary School music); Allison Turnbull (Westerly Elementary School music); Devon Gess (Bay High School vocal music); Dr. Ann Gilbert (Bay Middle School instrumental music); Andrew Novak (Bay Middle School vocal music); and Carrie Singler (Bay Middle School and Bay High School instrumental music).

Districts who wish to be evaluated and considered for the Best Communities for Music Education distinction must complete a detailed survey about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, certification of instructors and other relevant factors about their music education programs. Examples of how music teachers collaborate on lessons and activities with regular classroom teachers must also be provided. Responses are verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.