04/25/2026
For the tenth consecutive year, the Hendrick Hudson School District has been recognized with a Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation. This national honor is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in providing access to comprehensive, high-quality music education for all students.
“Receiving the NAMM Best Communities for Music Education award is an incredible honor that reflects the dedication of our students, families, and staff,” said Lauren Morabito, Orchestra Director at Hendrick Hudson High School and the district’s K–12 Department Leader. “At Hendrick Hudson, music is a vital part of who we are — it’s woven into our culture, our classrooms, and our community. As both an orchestra teacher and department leader, I’m proud to be part of a district that nurtures creativity, connection, and excellence through music every day.”
To qualify for the designation, Hendrick Hudson responded to detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making opportunities. Responses were verified by school officials and reviewed by the arts education research firm WolfBrown.
During the 2025–26 school year, Hendrick Hudson student musicians have continued to excel in prestigious local, regional, and state-level programs. Hendrick Hudson High School also remains the only high school in New York State offering the United Sound program, which provides inclusive, peer-mentored music-making opportunities for students with special needs.
