Kenosha Reporter

Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD) has announced its receipt of the NAMM Foundation’s Best Communities for Music Education recognition for the eighth consecutive year.

In its 26th year, this national designation recognizes districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in providing access to and education in music for all students. The award highlights KUSD's continued support and investment in comprehensive music programming, according to the district.

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, KUSD completed a detailed survey covering funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instructional time, facilities, and community music-making opportunities. According to KUSD, the district’s responses were verified by school officials and reviewed by WolfBrown, a leading arts education research firm. The NAMM Foundation recognized more than 1,000 public, private, charter, and parochial schools and districts across the U.S. through its two annual awards: Best Communities for Music Education (for districts) and the Support Music Merit Award (for individual schools). These awards aim to boost awareness and backing for music programs in grades K-12.

"Our music programs are a true point of pride in our district, showcasing an unmatched caliber of talent, dedication and excellence from both staff and students," said KUSD Superintendent Dr. Jeff Weiss. "We are grateful to have a community that values the fine arts and supports them beyond measure."

Kenosha Unified School District offers a variety of Fine Arts programs that students can participate in starting at the elementary level. Music education begins in elementary school with opportunities for students to continue in band, choir, or orchestra through middle and high school. Theatre arts and visual arts education also start at the elementary level with students having the option to continue in middle and high school. In theatre, students can participate in both curricular and extracurricular productions while visual arts include offerings in 2D and 3D art.

Established in 1967, KUSD serves the City of Kenosha, Village of Pleasant Prairie, and the Town and Village of Somers in southeastern Wisconsin. It operates 16 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, 3 high schools, 3 charter schools, 3 choice schools, a specialty school, and a Head Start center.