Andover Public Schools (APS) has once again been named a Best Community for Music Education (BCME) by The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation, marking the fifth consecutive year the district has received this prestigious national recognition. Andover is among a select group of school districts in Massachusetts to earn this honor.

Now in its 27th year, the Best Communities for Music Education program recognizes districts across the nation that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to high-quality and equitable music education. In 2026, more than 1,000 districts and schools nationwide were recognized. Andover’s continued presence on the list reflects the district’s sustained investment in access, innovation, and excellence in music education for all students.

“This recognition is a testament to the long-term commitment Andover Public Schools has made to ensuring every student has the opportunity to engage in meaningful and high-quality music education,” said Keith Taverna, Interim Superintendent. “We are proud to be consistently recognized at the national level and grateful for the collective efforts of our students, staff, and families that make this possible.”

Over the past several years, Andover’s Visual and Performing Arts programs have grown significantly. District data shows substantial increases in student participation across all grade levels, including nearly doubling enrollment in elementary band programs and strong growth in middle and high school ensembles. APS has also expanded course offerings and extracurricular opportunities, ensuring wide access to programs across the district.

Recent program highlights include:

Expanded elementary theater programs at Bancroft and Sanborn
New offerings such as Middle School Show Choir, Winter Guard, and Winter Percussion
Launch of new high school courses, including AP Music Theory, Philharmonia Orchestra, Songwriting, and Beginning Guitar and Piano
Ongoing access initiatives, including the distribution of 110 instruments to families in financial need through grant-supported programs

APS students and educators have also earned numerous state and regional honors, including gold ratings at state festivals, MET Awards for theater excellence, and recognition of district educators at the state level.

“As always, this award reflects the efforts of so many people,” said Sean Walsh, PK-12 Visual and Performing Arts Program Coordinator. “We are deeply grateful to our dedicated music educators, fellow administrators, supportive families, our community partners, and, most importantly, our incredible students. Their creativity, commitment, and passion for the arts continue to inspire us.”

Andover Public Schools remains committed to building on this momentum and continuing to strengthen and expand its music and arts programming. “I am proud to serve this district and look forward to continued collaboration as we work to enhance these programs,” Walsh added. “Thank you to our community for their ongoing support of the arts in Andover, it truly makes a difference for our students.”

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West Elementary School