Port Clinton music programs recognized for 5th time

PORT CLINTON — Port Clinton Schools' music programs have earned a record number of national honors to date. For the fifth year in a row, the school district received a Best Communities for Music Education Award from the National Association of Music Merchants. This year, the Ottawa County school district was among about 830 school districts in the U.S. that achieved the honor. "The award program recognizes outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders who have made music education part of a well-rounded education," according to the association's foundation. "Designations are made to districts and schools that demonstrate an exceptionally high commitment and access to music education." "Thank you to our students, music educators, parents and community who help make this national recognition possible," the school district posted on its social networking page. At Port Clinton Schools, music education starts in kindergarten with each grade level having opportunities to learn about music and participate in performances. Elementary music educators teach the foundations of music to prepare students for middle school. Students select instruments, and faculty prepare them for high school music classes. Bell choir and show choir start at the elementary level, and choral groups are also offered at the middle and high schools. Additionally, Port Clinton is the only school district in Ottawa County to offer band, choir and orchestra to its students, officials said. Port Clinton Schools' music educators are Kathy Miller, Toby Farrell, Jennifer Barringer, Sean DeLong, Adam Murray and Bruno Bush. The National Association of Music Merchants Foundation is a nonprofit supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants and its approximately 10,400 members around the world. The foundation advances active participation in music-making across the lifespan by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving and public service programs. _ Reach reporter Caitlin Nearhood at nearhood@sanduskyregister.com and follow her on Twitter @CaitlinNearhood