Eanes ISD’s music education program receives national recognition

For the sixth consecutive year, Eanes ISD has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation, according to a May 12 press release.

The recognition is awarded to districts demonstrating outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students, the release states.

Funding, graduation requirements, music class participants, instruction time, support for music programs and other factors were evaluated and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas as part of the decision-making process.

“We are so honored to be a repeat winner of this national recognition,” Kerry Taylor, EISD director of fine arts, said. “During this time of self-isolation and stay-at-home constraints, we truly learn the value of the joy and enrichment that comes from creating and sharing music together.”

EISD is leading the way in providing opportunities outlined in the Every Student Succeeds Act, legislation replacing the No Child Left Behind Act, which was criticized for overemphasizing testing, according to EISD information. The ESSA recommends music and art as critical elements of a well-rounded education.

“Every little kid wants magic to be in their life,” said Maya, a Westlake High School choir and band student. “Music is my way of having magic in mine.”