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De Soto School District No. 73 Receives National Recognition for Music Education Support for the Third Year in a Row!
De Soto, MO - 4/24/26– De Soto School District No. 73 has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for their outstanding support and commitment to music education for the third year in a row. Now in its 27th year, the Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement for providing music access and education to all students.
De Soto School District No. 73 is one of only 9 Missouri schools, and the only Jefferson County school to make the list for Best Communities for Music Education!
Two awards are given each year: Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) for school districts and the SupportMusic Merit Award (SMMA) for individual school sites. Both reach K-12 schools and districts throughout the U.S. and offer opportunities to increase awareness and support for music programs. Over 1,000 districts and individual school sites (public, private, charter, parochial) were recognized for having the highest commitment to producing exceptional music programs.
“Our music program is thriving because of an incredible community that shows up, gives back and believes in the power of the arts. Our incredible music staff is passionate, dedicated and inspires our students to grow not only as musicians but as confident and creative individuals.
We are so grateful to be surrounded by people who truly value music and the opportunities it creates.” - Beverly Wilson- De Soto School Board President
“Congratulations this is a great honor for the music department. I am glad De Soto is a district that strives for academic excellence but also supports the development of fine arts in our schools. Congratulations again to the music department.” - Mark Ferrell De Soto School Board Vice President
“This recognition speaks to the incredible opportunities our students have through music education in De Soto. From authentic, real-world experiences like performing and learning in New Orleans, to working with guest clinicians and participating in high-level performances and competitions, our students are immersed in a program that goes far beyond the classroom. Our music educators are not only developing talented performers, but cultivating lifelong musicians with a deep appreciation for the art, a passion for continuous growth, and a desire to share that love of music with others.” - Ron Farrow, De Soto #73 Superintendent
“Music education increases cognitive functioning, inspires and motivates students, and helps them connect with their own culture in deeper ways while expanding their horizons and understanding of other cultures all around the world.” - Mr. Josh Phipps, De Soto #73 Assistant Superintendent
“Music education plays a crucial role in the De Soto #73 School District, offering students invaluable opportunities to enhance their creativity, cognitive development, and it give students an opportunity to show their Dragon pride! Our music program is not only rich with history, but it continues to support academic achievements across other content areas. Moreover, our music programs help students build essential life skills such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience, contributing significantly to the overall educational experience and personal growth of our students.” - Mr. Jon Roop, DHS Principal
“At De Soto #73, our music program is built on the belief that every student deserves access to meaningful musical experiences and the opportunity to grow, not only as musicians, but also as a people. Being recognized as a Best Community for Music Education for the third consecutive year reflects the commitment of our students, staff, families, and community members who continue to value and support music education. On behalf of the music staff, thank you to our Board of Education and to all of the incredible community members and business partners who continue to support our programs!” - Mr. Darrell Boyer, Director of Bands
Recipients of the 2026 BCME Awards were selected through a comprehensive application and review process that evaluates key indicators, including funding, instructional time, participation rates, facilities and community support. To uphold the program’s rigor and credibility, all applications were independently reviewed and verified by WolfBrown, a leading research and evaluation firm specializing in education and the arts.
Thank you to Mrs. Samantha Boyer for her work in compiling the information required and completing the application!
About Music at D73
At De Soto #73, we recognize the profound impact of music on our students' lives. Led by our dedicated team of music educators, our music program goes beyond teaching mere notes and rhythms; it instills a lifelong love of music and empowers students to create, communicate, and advocate for the arts.
Under the guidance of our music educators, our students embark on a journey of musical discovery that extends beyond the confines of the classroom. Through daily engagement in composing, performing, listening, and appreciating music, our students develop skills that reach far beyond the music room, enriching their lives and shaping their futures.
From the earliest grades, our elementary music staff provide engaging opportunities for students to explore the fundamentals of music through dynamic lessons, captivating performances, and enriching extracurricular experiences. Using a diverse curriculum that incorporates Orff, Kodaly, and Dalcroze techniques within project-based learning, students develop a strong foundation in musical literacy and expression.
As students progress to our secondary campus, our music program continues to flourish, building upon the groundwork laid by our elementary educators. Our comprehensive course offerings encompass a wide array of musical formats, including electronic, vocal, and instrumental music. Students have the opportunity to further develop their musical abilities through curricular ensemble courses and participation in extracurricular activities such as the DHS Rock Band, Fountain City Composition Contest, and Tri-M Music Honor Society. These extracurricular opportunities provide students with invaluable experiences, allowing them to perform alongside professionals, receive feedback from acclaimed composers and Grammy artists, and showcase their talents on a larger stage.
At De Soto #73, we are proud to support music education in our schools, and we are grateful to have such an outstanding team of educators leading the charge. Together, we nurture a thriving musical community where every student has the opportunity to discover their passion for music and unlock their full potential.
De Soto #73 School District Music Faculty
Darrell Boyer-DHS Director of Bands
Chris Howard-DMS Assistant Director of Bands
Samantha Boyer- DMS Beginning Band Director
Suzanne Harris- DHS Director of Choirs
Seth Harris- DMS Choir Director
Denise Wallach- Athena Elementary Music Educator
Dietrich Plyler- Vineland Elementary Music Educator
About The NAMM Foundation
The NAMM Foundation is the charitable arm of the National Association of Music Merchants, the global trade association for the music products industry. The foundation works to remove systemic barriers that limit access to music-making and career pathways in the music industry. By investing in bold ideas and innovative solutions, we strive to build inclusive and thriving musical communities. For more information about The NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.
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