The Great Neck Public Schools has again been named among the “Best Communities for Music Education” by the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Foundation, a coalition of music and educational organizations. This year marks the nineteenth time that Great Neck has received this prestigious award since its inception in 2005.

The Best Communities designation is earned by districts that demonstrate a commitment to ensuring music learning opportunities are available for every student and provide an example for other communities to follow. Great Neck is one of 935 school districts nationwide to receive this recognition.

This award program recognizes and celebrates outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders who have made music education part of a well-rounded education. Consideration for this award requires a lengthy survey about the District’s music programs and offerings. The application is completed annually by South High School Performing Arts Department Chair Michael Schwartz, who compiles materials from music faculty across all of the District’s school buildings.

Great Neck’s proud music faculty include: Fine & Performing Arts Department Head Dr. Pamela Levy, Chris Giordano, Dr. Esther Noh, and Jacqueline Tomlet at North High; Performing Arts Department Head Michael Schwartz, Mark Boschen, Dr. Janine Robinson, Anthony Virgilio, and Ilana Meredith Schikler at South High; Department Head Matthew Trinkwald, Andrew DeNise, and Arielle Murdocco at North Middle; Department Head Alan Schwartz, Mark Boschen, Korey Coppola, and Anthony Virgilio at South Middle; Desireé DeMelfi, Aurora Coman, and Anne Fogarty at Baker; Jessica Altieri and Rosario Fuschetto, Jr. at Kennedy; Juan Garcia, Michael Sorreninto, and Maryann Tabibzada at Lakeville; Robin Golub at Parkville; and Chad Lasky and Emily Roach at Saddle Rock.