The NAMM Foundation has honored the Central Lee Community School District with the 2026 Best Communities for Music Education Award.
Central Lee is one of seven school districts in Iowa to receive the designation this year, highlighting the district’s ongoing commitment to providing students with access to high-quality music education. This is the third consecutive year the district has earned the honor.
The award goes to school districts that demonstrate a strong commitment to ensuring all students have access to a comprehensive music education. The designation reflects not only classroom instruction, but also the level of community and district support, access to diverse musical opportunities, and the resources available to students and staff.
“This recognition reflects the collective support our students receive from our schools and the broader community,” said Central Lee High School Music Director Tracy Madsen. “Our goal is to provide meaningful opportunities for every student to engage in music, whether it’s in the classroom, in performances, or through community involvement.”
At Central Lee, music education begins at the elementary level with general music classes, beginning band, and youth choir opportunities. At the middle school, students can participate in concert choir, show choir, band, jazz band, and marching band. High school offerings include concert band, marching band, jazz band, concert choir, and CENTRifugal Force show choir.
The district’s program emphasizes access to a range of musical experiences, including exposure to different cultures, languages, and instruments. Students can also extend their learning beyond the classroom through participation in community-based ensembles and activities such as local choirs, bands, and theater programs.
The NAMM Foundation’s selection process evaluates districts based on several factors, including funding, staffing, access to instruction, participation rates, and the quality and availability of equipment and facilities.
Central Lee’s music program is supported in part by the Central Lee Music Boosters, which helps provide additional resources and opportunities for students to participate in music programs.
For more information about the Central Lee music program, visit https://sites.google.com/view/centralleemusic.