Vancouver Public Schools again earned a Best Communities for Music Education award from the nonprofit National Association of Music Merchants Foundation. This is the second consecutive year VPS has received the award, which recognizes commitment and dedication to music and the arts as part of a well-rounded education. VPS is one of 754 districts across the nation and one of just six in Washington state to be recognized.

Vancouver offers musical opportunities to all students from kindergarten through 12th grade including general music instruction, band, choir, orchestra, music recording, musical theater, extracurricular classes and programs and an arts school. Dedicated arts funding, an instrument inventory, auditorium spaces and artist visits support and enrich the opportunities for students. VPS schools also benefit from strong community engagement in music education through support from music booster clubs, local colleges and performing groups and nonprofit organizations. 

“We are committed to arts education as part of the core curriculum in our schools,” said Superintendent Steve Webb. “Music enriches learning and gives students unique opportunities for creativity and expression. We are proud of our dedicated students and their families, our passionate teachers and our supportive community.”

The NAMM Foundation, supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants, advances active participation in music making by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving and public service programs.

Photo: The many faces of VPS arts education

VPS arts teachers and staff