Solon City Schools is a Best Community for Music Education for the 13th Year

Underscoring the district’s exemplary achievement in providing access to music education for all students, the Solon City Schools has received the prestigious Best Communities for Music Education award for 2026 from the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation. This is the 13th year in a row the district has been recognized for its “leadership in advancing music education and expanding equitable access for all students.”

The Best Communities for Music Education national recognition program honors the efforts of school districts that ensure access to music for all students as part of a well-rounded curriculum, according to NAMM. Additionally, the award program recognizes outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders for their exemplary dedication to music education.

NAMM officials noted that community investments in music education support students’ overall potential. “Music education plays a vital role in cultivating vibrant, connected communities,” said John Mlynczak, NAMM President and CEO. “The 2026 Best Communities for Music Education recipients exemplify how meaningful access to music fosters creativity, collaboration and lifelong learning. We are proud to recognize their leadership and unwavering dedication to ensuring every student has the opportunity to engage in music.”

“This award represents more than recognition. It reflects our community’s deep investment in providing exceptional music education for every student,” said Solon Schools Superintendent Fred Bolden.

“From elementary music classes through our award-winning high school ensembles, our students have access to comprehensive programming that develops their talents and passion for the arts," he said. "That’s only possible because of the strong partnership between our schools, families, and community.”

To qualify for the Best Communities for Music Education designation, the Solon Schools provided comprehensive information about funding, instructional time, student participation rates, graduation requirements, facilities, and community music-making programs. The application and review process evaluates district support for music education, the quality of the music faculty, and budgetary commitment among other key indicators. To ensure program credibility, all applications are independently reviewed and verified by WolfBrown, a research and evaluation firm specializing in education and the arts, confirming that the recognition reflects measurable achievement and sustained commitment to music education.

Music education flourishes in communities where it’s valued as essential, not “extra.” The Best Communities for Music Education award recognizes districts that demonstrate this commitment through consistent funding for music as part of the core curriculum and strong community engagement. In these communities, music programs are a point of pride—families and residents attend performances regularly, staff support the programs enthusiastically, and the community views music education as integral to providing students a well-rounded education. This sustained support, the NAMM Foundation notes, creates environments where music contributes to students’ broader academic and personal success.

“The arts aren’t separate from our academic mission—they’re integrated throughout everything we do,” Mr. Bolden said. “This recognition affirms the connections between music education and student success across all content areas. Our district is built on four pillars: academics, arts, athletics, and activities. That comprehensive approach develops well-rounded students, and our commitment to maintaining strong arts programs is a major factor in why families choose to live here and be part of the Solon Schools community.”