***NEWS RELEASE***
CENTREVILLE, MD—Queen Anne’s County Public Schools (QACPS) has once again earned national recognition from The NAMM Foundation, receiving the 2025 Best Communities for Music Education Award. This marks only the second time in district history—the first being in 2020—that QACPS has received this prestigious designation, joining just 935 school districts nationwide honored for their exceptional commitment to music education.
The award celebrates districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in making music part of a well-rounded education. QACPS stood out for its innovative programming, sustained funding, community engagement, and equitable student access to music at every grade level.
Key highlights that contributed to this recognition include:
- Hosting the first-ever MMEA Fall In-Service on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, a statewide professional development event for music educators.
- Recognition of Kent Island High School Principal Dan Harding as MMEA Administrator of the Year, and KIHS Music Educator Kimberly Scully as MMEA Outstanding Music Teacher of the Year.
- Innovative district-wide programs such as the historic Combined Choir Concerts (grades 3–12), Veterans Day collaborations with local organizations, and student participation in All-State, All-Shore, and national music venues.
- Strong community partnerships, including performances at local events, collaborations with Chesapeake College, regional arts organizations, and widespread visibility through QACPS’s ArtScene newsletter publications, “Arts Teens of the Week”, and showcases on ArtScene | The Podcast.
This honor would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of Kimberly Scully, who helped prepare the district’s application packet with input from Supervisor of Visual & Performing Arts Michael Bell, and the dedicated music educators across QACPS who contribute daily to this nationally recognized success.
“This award affirms the incredible work happening across our schools and in our communities,” said Michael Bell, Supervisor of Visual & Performing Arts. “From dynamic classroom instruction to unique performance opportunities, QACPS continues to lead the way as trailblazers in the arts across Maryland—and the nation.”
Dr. Patricia Saelens, Superintendent, added:“Our students and staff continue to shine. We are so blessed to have a strong program that provides our students endless opportunities to grow and meet their individual potential. A sincere thank you to our amazing staff and leadership team that made this happen.”
Dr. Matthew Kibler, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, shared: “This recognition is a direct reflection of the passion and professionalism of our music educators, the engagement of our students, and the unwavering support of our families and community. We are proud to celebrate this national honor and the creative opportunities it represents for every child in QACPS.”
For more information on the Best Communities for Music Education program, visit www.nammfoundation.org.
Download a PDF copy of the news release here.