The Lawrence School District has once again earned national recognition for its commitment to the arts, being named a 2026 Best Communities for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation — an honor it has received every year since 2017.
Now in its 27th year, the award recognizes districts across the country that demonstrate outstanding achievement in providing music access and education to all students. Lawrence is among a select group of districts acknowledged for prioritizing music as part of a well-rounded academic experience, with evaluators reviewing areas such as funding, curriculum, participation and community support.
Superintendent Ann Pedersen said the recognition reflects a districtwide effort.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our music educators, administrators, students and the entire Lawrence community,” Pedersen wrote in a statement. “We believe that music is an essential component of student development, fostering creativity, discipline and collaboration.”
Lawrence’s music program includes band, orchestra, chorus and general music instruction at all grade levels, with students regularly participating in regional and statewide performances and honors ensembles.
District Music Coordinator Pamela Gallopini emphasized that the award extends beyond the classroom.
“This really involves everybody — the department, the community, the Board of Education, administration, teachers and students,” Gallopini said. “We have so many opportunities for students to perform, whether it’s in school or out in the community.”
Those opportunities include concerts, honor society recitals and outreach performances at local venues such as nursing homes in the Five Towns area. Students also take part in drama and dance productions throughout the year, further expanding their exposure to the arts.
District officials said they remain committed to expanding access to music education, ensuring students continue to benefit from a program that has become a point of pride for the Lawrence community.
“We really allow students many opportunities to feel proud, both individually and collectively,” Gallopini said. “And just seeing the students, the progress of the students, and how each student grows — the growth throughout the school year and from year to year — and then coming together to celebrate through performances, it’s a wonderful thing. I’m very proud and happy to be part of it.”
