Goose Creek CISD Receives First-Time National Recognition for Championing Music Education Goose Creek CISD (GCCISD) has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) Award from The NAMM Foundation for its outstanding support and commitment to music education. Now in its 27th year, the program continues to spotlight and celebrate school districts and individual schools across the United States for their exemplary dedication to music education and their ongoing efforts to ensure equitable access to music learning as part of a well-rounded education.

The award reaches K-12 communities nationwide, offering both recognition and momentum to strengthen and expand music education programs. In 2026, more than 1,000 school districts and schools—including public, private, charter, and parochial institutions—have been recognized for outstanding achievement in providing access to high-quality music education.

“Music education is not an extra in Goose Creek CISD; it is an essential part of how we develop disciplined, confident, and collaborative students. This recognition reflects the commitment of our educators, the support of our community, and the dedication of our students who show up every day ready to grow through the arts. Being named a Best Community for Music Education reinforces that we are on the right path, but more importantly, it challenges us to continue expanding access and raising the standard for what our programs can be. We are proud of this honor, and even more focused on the work ahead.” - Dr. Ray Lavan, GCCISD Director of Fine Arts

Recipients of the 2026 BCME Awards were selected through a comprehensive application and review process that evaluates key indicators, including funding, instructional time, participation rates, facilities, and community support. To uphold the program’s rigor and credibility, all applications were independently reviewed and verified by WolfBrown, a leading research and evaluation firm specializing in education and the arts.

The NAMM Foundation is the charitable arm of the National Association of Music Merchants, the global trade association for the music products industry. The foundation works to remove systemic barriers that limit access to music-making and career pathways in the music industry. By investing in bold ideas and innovative solutions, we strive to build inclusive and thriving musical communities. For more information about The NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.