WUSD Earns National Recognition for Music Education

District named a Best Community for Music Education for the 7th straight year

WHITEWATER, WI — For the seventh consecutive year, the Whitewater Unified School District has been nationally recognized as one of the Best Communities for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation.

The designation celebrates school districts across the country that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students. WUSD previously earned the distinction in 2012, 2014, 2017, and every year from 2019 through 2025.

“We are thrilled to be honored once again in 2025,” said Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty, WUSD Superintendent. “This recognition reflects the tireless work of our talented music educators and the steadfast support of administrators, families, and the greater Whitewater community. Our commitment to providing meaningful and inclusive music education opportunities for all students remains stronger than ever.”

The Best Communities for Music Education award, now in its 26th year, has recognized over 1,000 school districts nationwide. The NAMM Foundation highlights communities like Whitewater that prioritize music as an essential part of a well-rounded education.

WUSD congratulates the music educators who made this recognition possible. This includes the elementary-level team of Valerie Troxell, Meredith Ibach, and Nathan Roley; the middle school team of Stacey Joseph and Justin Kamp; MacKenzie Gehrke and Sam Averill at Whitewater High School; and Patricia Nielsen from the Whitewater String Program.