Lorain City Schools has been named one of the nation’s top communities for music education, earning national recognition from the NAMM Foundation (National Association of Music Merchants). The announcement was shared during a recent special meeting of the Lorain City Schools Board of Education, where members of the district’s music department presented the award and outlined how the district qualified for the distinction.
The designation is based on a comprehensive national application process that evaluates districts across several categories, including student access to music education, teacher qualifications, funding practices, community involvement, curriculum offerings, and performance opportunities.
Lorain was one of fewer than 900 districts nationwide to receive the 2024 Best Communities for Music Education award. The recognition reflects a district-wide commitment to music programming across all grade levels. Representatives from the music department — Ted Terhune, Angelo Kortyka, and Emily Pack — explained that the application covered factors such as professional development for music staff, the diversity of musical offerings, and how music education is integrated from preschool through high school.
The district has expanded access to instruments and instruction starting in third grade. Elementary students across all ten schools now participate in two annual performances and receive instruction in recorder, keyboard, and ukulele. Several schools have also introduced music and piano clubs.
At the middle school level, music programs now include steel bands, participation in solo and ensemble competitions, and summer band camps. String instruction has also been reintroduced district-wide — a revival of a program that was previously phased out. Guest artists have been brought in to perform and work with students, including appearances at district events like ArtsFest.
High school programming has grown significantly. Lorain High School saw a 52% increase in student enrollment in music courses over the past year. Students engaged in workshops and clinics led by faculty from institutions such as Ohio University, Cleveland State University, and Kent State University. Guest conductors and college jazz ensemble visits were part of the expanded programming.
Music staff noted that investments made over the past three years in fine arts have had a measurable impact on both student participation and instructional quality. The award is expected to improve future recruitment of music educators and may lead to additional support from vendors and sponsors.
District leaders thanked the music team for their continued efforts and emphasized that the award is not just a recognition of opportunity, but also of quality programming and consistent collaboration across grade levels.
Lorain City Schools plans to continue its district-wide focus on music education in the upcoming academic year.