SVSD News

Hellertown, PA  – Thursday, April 23, 2026 – Saucon Valley School District has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) Award from The NAMM Foundation for their outstanding support and commitment to music education. Now in its 27th year, the program continues to spotlight and celebrate school districts and individual schools across the United States for their exemplary dedication to music education and their ongoing efforts to ensure equitable access to music learning as part of a well-rounded education.

The award reaches K-12 communities nationwide, offering both recognition and momentum to strengthen and expand music education programs. In 2026, more than 1,000 school districts and schools—including public, private, charter and parochial institutions—have been recognized for outstanding achievement in providing access to high-quality music education.

"Music is an integral part of Saucon Valley School District's educational programming," said Superintendent Jaime Vlasaty. "It teaches students the value of teamwork, dedication, persistence, and care, while challenging them to create and use their mind, body, intellect, and intuition. This recognition recognizes the district’s continued commitment to providing these invaluable experiences that will serve students far beyond the classroom’s four walls.”

Recipients of the 2026 BCME Awards were selected through a comprehensive application and review process that evaluates key indicators, including funding, instructional time, participation rates, facilities and community support. To uphold the program’s rigor and credibility, all applications were independently reviewed and verified by WolfBrown, a leading research and evaluation firm specializing in education and the arts.

The Mission of Saucon Valley School District 

The Saucon Valley School District prepares — in partnership with families and our community — new generations of students to boldly face the future; to promote human understanding; to foster technological advancement; to communicate effectively; to nurture mind, body and moral character; to appreciate community and public service; and to strive intellectually as creative problem-solvers, makers and citizens ready for tomorrow.

About The NAMM Foundation

The NAMM Foundation is the charitable arm of the National Association of Music Merchants, the global trade association for the music products industry. The foundation works to remove systemic barriers that limit access to music-making and career pathways in the music industry. By investing in bold ideas and innovative solutions, we strive to build inclusive and thriving musical communities. For more information about The NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.

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