HENRY COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Susan Burton, Communications Director
PARIS, TN – The Henry County School System is proud to announce it has been recognized with the Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) Award from The NAMM Foundation. This prestigious honor celebrates school districts across the United States that demonstrate an exemplary commitment to providing equitable access to music learning as a core pillar of a well-rounded education.
Now in its 27th year, the BCME program serves as a national spotlight for districts that prioritize the arts. In 2026, Henry County joins an elite group of over 1,000 schools and districts nationwide recognized for their outstanding achievement in music instruction.
“This honor reflects the dedication, passion, and hard work of our entire team, as well as the continued support of our Director of Schools, Dr. Leah Watkins, school administrators, and school board,” said Dr. Felicia Bates, Fine Arts Supervisor. “Thank you all for your commitment to providing outstanding music education opportunities for our students.”
To earn this designation, Henry County School System underwent a comprehensive review process. The NAMM Foundation, in partnership with the independent research firm WolfBrown, evaluated the district across several key performance indicators, including:
Funding and Resource Allocation: Stability and growth of financial support for arts programs.
• Instructional Time: Consistency of music education within the K-12 curriculum.
• Participation Rates: Student engagement and enrollment in music electives.
• Facilities and Community Support: Quality of performance spaces and the strength of local partnerships.
The BCME Award provides more than just recognition; it offers the momentum necessary to further expand and strengthen music programs within the Henry County community. Every student in the Henry County School System can participate in music education, starting in pre-kindergarten through grade 12. By ensuring that music remains a fundamental part of the educational experience, the system continues to foster creativity, discipline, and academic success for all students.
For more information about the Henry County School System and its fine arts programs, please visit henryk12.net.
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Photo submitted by the HCHS Band- Henry County School System has been awarded the Best Communities for Music Education (BCME). One of the many competitions elementary and high school students attend are the 2026 West Tennessee Concert Festival. Pictured is the Henry County High School Concert Band who received a Superior Rating Composite score and Superior Rating Sight Reading score at the festival.