Adam Murray guides the Port Clinton Middle School orchestra this year. Port Clinton School District received the national designation of BEST Communities for Music Education from the NAMM Foundation for the second year in a row.

Port Clinton has received a Best Communities for Music Education Award from the National Association of Music Merchants for the second year in a row. The district has been recognized as one of the school districts that are among the Best Communities in the nation for music education.

The award program recognizes outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders who have made music education part of a well-rounded education, according to the NAMM Foundation. Designations are made to districts and schools that demonstrate an exceptionally high commitment and access to music education.

Port Clinton School District officials told the selection committee that music education is part of its curriculum starting in kindergarten through grade 12. Music education is successful in the Port Clinton School District due to sequencing at each level by the music faculty. The elementary music teachers are the “fire starters” to peak interest and teach music foundations of music to prepare for middle school. In middle school, students select instruments and faculty prepares them for high school music classes. Bell Choir and Show Choir start at the elementary level.

Port Clinton school music programs also provide an opportunity for students to travel and experience life outside of Port Clinton. In the past four years, Port Clinton music groups have traveled to New York, Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit and Orlando to perform. Port Clinton is the only school district in Ottawa County to offer all three music programs: band, choir and orchestra.

The award reflects a supportive Port Clinton community. Concerts are popular with the community and the annual Band Sousa Concert is often standing room only. The music faculty combines talent to hold the Holiday Breakfast with the Arts that is attended by hundreds of senior citizens each year. Touch of Class A Cappella ensemble’s concerts and performances are extremely popular.

The middle and high school orchestras are the only orchestra program in Ottawa County, hosting guest conductors from all over the country. The Greater Port Clinton Area Arts Council brings Toledo Opera on Wheels to students in grades K-8.

A strong volunteer base helps chaperone trips, fundraising and a Grade 6 “quick start” program. Quick start allows new musicians to learn in small groups with veteran music teachers paid by music boosters. With the support of our community, Port Clinton is a financially stable district with new facilities that support music education. Port Clinton City School District is very proud of music educators Kathy Miller, Toby Farrell, Jennifer Barringer, Rod Miller, Adam Murray, Bruno Bush and the community for making this award possible.

“We continue to be very proud of all of our music programs here in Port Clinton. Music education has always been an important part of who we are, said Supt. Patrick Adkins. “We appreciate all the hard work of our music instructors and students. It’s great to see them recognized for their commitment and dedication.”