West Islip Honored as Best Community for Music Education

West Islip Union Free School District is one of 1,008 school districts across 43 states to be named as a 2026 Best Community for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation. The award program recognizes and celebrates outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders who have made music education part of a well-rounded education. Designations are made to districts and schools that demonstrate an exceptionally high commitment to and access to music education.
“West Islip has been recognized for the ninth consecutive year,” said Eric Albinder, West Islip’s director of art and music education. “During the past 25 years, the national BCME award has honored more than 1,000 schools and districts in 43 states, for their unwavering commitment to music education as an integral part of a well-rounded education for all students. Let's celebrate the district’s dedication to music education for all students.”
