BOARDMAN, Ohio (WKBN) — Last week, the National Association of Music Merchants announced that Boardman schools are among the “Best Communities for Music Education” in the United States. So what does Boardman do to distinguish itself from other districts? Why is this a great school for music? First News went to find out firsthand.
In the Boardman High School music building, Tom Ruggieri taught the Jazz 1 Ensemble on a Monday afternoon. In the same hallway, Christine Carlucci taught chamber orchestra.
Michele Prokop chairs Boardman's music department and is proud that the National Association of Music Merchants has named Boardman one of the “Best Communities for Music Education.”
“Our kids have actually been learning music since kindergarten,” Prokop said. “This is the eighth time we have won this award.”
Boardman has 12 music teachers, 10 of whom have master's degrees. They direct 13 ensembles. Unlike other schools where music instructors teach everything, at Boardman, music instructors provide professional instruction.
“We play those instruments. We know the most about those instruments and can teach kids to a very high level,” Prokop said.
Bill Amendor is a graduate of Boardman and currently teaches orchestra. He says Boardman is a place music teachers want to work.
“We ask our kids here at high school to play like the pros,” Amendl said. “I worked in two other school districts, but when I got the call that there was a job opening here and I might be considered, I ran away.”
Joel Monaco teaches fourth grade.
“It's exceptional here. It really is,” Monaco said.
At Boardman, music is required through eighth grade. You can choose between string instruments, band, or choir. The district provides instruments and encourages private lessons.
“But I think probably the most important thing is to develop passion and love what you do,” Monaco said. “That’s what we’re aiming for here.”
And what sets Boardman's music department apart from other departments? We have our own performing arts center.
“This takes us to a whole other level,” Amendl said.
Music is an elective subject in high school. Still, 40% of her students take music courses.
Boardman's musical endeavors began in the early 1970s and continue today.
“They set us a pattern and we just follow it. Hopefully, I don't think it's going to change much,” Prokop said.
Boardman also has an active group of band and orchestra parents. We recently helped organize a fundraiser to purchase a new musical instrument.