ETR Staff Report
Longview, TX – Longview High School has been named a 2026 Best Schools for Music Education Award winner by The NAMM Foundation, a national recognition honoring schools that demonstrate outstanding achievement and commitment to music education.
“This recognition reflects the talent, discipline, and heart our students bring to music every day.”
Shameika Allen, principal of Longview High School
Longview High School is one of only three schools in Texas to receive the campus-level award this year. In East Texas, Beckville ISD, Nacogdoches ISD, and Tyler ISD were also recognized by The NAMM Foundation as Best Communities for Music Education district winners.
The annual award recognizes schools and districts across the country for providing students with access to high-quality music education and for supporting music as an essential part of a well-rounded education.
“This recognition reflects the talent, discipline, and heart our students bring to music every day,” said Shameika Allen, principal of Longview High School. “It also speaks to the dedication of our directors and staff, who work tirelessly to create opportunities for students to grow as musicians and as leaders. We are proud to see Longview High School recognized on a national level.”
Longview High School’s music programs continue to be a point of pride for the campus and community, giving students opportunities to perform, compete, and develop skills that reach far beyond the classroom.
“For our students, music is about much more than notes on a page,” said Grant Woodson, assistant band director at Longview High School. “It teaches discipline, teamwork, resilience, and confidence. To see our school earn this kind of recognition is exciting because it shines a light on the hard work our students put in every single day.”
Award recipients are selected through a comprehensive application process that reviews factors such as funding, participation, instruction time, facilities, and community support. Applications are verified by WolfBrown, a national arts education research firm.
“This honor belongs to our students, our families, our campus, and everyone who believes in the value of music education,” said Rhonda Daniel, band director at Longview High School. “Music gives students a place to belong, a place to excel, and a place to express themselves. We are grateful to be recognized for a program that means so much to so many.”
The NAMM Foundation’s Best Communities for Music Education program is now in its 27th year and highlights schools and districts across the United States that are making music education accessible and meaningful for students.
For more information, contact media@lisd.org
