Sara Stadem | Editor
For the third time in the last four years, West Central is able to say they are the “Best Communities for Music Education!”
The NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Foundation has honored the West Central with the 2021 Best Communities for Music Education for its outstanding commitment to music education. According to the press release, this is the 22nd year this has been awarded and the districts receive it based off their outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to students.
In order to be eligible for this award, West Central went through a lengthy application process, according to West Central Director of Bands Daniel Eye. Mr. Eye, who was the lead on the 50-60 page application, said it was a collaboration with several staff within the school district.
According to the press release, West Central answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and community music-making programs. School officials verified responses and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.
At the recent school board meeting on Monday, April 12, this award was discussed and the opportunities the community offers for students. Mr. Eye mentioned students have the opportunities to perform outside of school at Jamboree Days, Hometown Christmas, Memorial Day, Veteran’s Day, piano lessons, bandshell concerts, Youth Orchestra in Sioux Falls and Church Worship teams.
According to Mr. Eye, West Central is only one of two schools in the state of South Dakota to receive this and there are 686 schools nationwide to receive it.
The West Central Music Staff consist of:
Daniel Eye – Middle School/High School Instrumental
Laurie Gratz – Middle School/High School Vocal
Samantha Meirose – Hartford Elementary Music/MS Lessons/MS Jazz Band
April Yocius – Humboldt Elementary Music/5th Grade Band
Mr. Eye said, “This really is a community award, it’s a district award, it’s a department award. It shows everyone is all in this together.” He continued, “We couldn’t be more excited about this. We appreciate the administrators and all they do to help us in our department.”