Schick Elementary Music Program Earns National Advocacy in Action Award
WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (APRIL 29, 2026) — The Donald E. Schick Elementary School band program was named a 2026 Advocacy in Action Award recipient for Elementary Excellence by Music for All.
The Advocacy in Action Awards recognize innovative music education programs and educators nationwide that demonstrate exceptional impact in their schools and communities.
Schick was recognized for its curriculum-based performance series designed to advance student musicianship, engage audiences and connect classroom instruction with the broader community. The initiative provides students with a range of performance experiences intended to support musical growth while building confidence and collaboration skills.
Elementary Band Director Emily Brumbaugh said the recognition highlights the importance of elementary-level music education.
“We’re really honored to receive the Advocacy in Action Award for Elementary Excellence,” Brumbaugh said. “A lot of times, the spotlight goes to secondary programs, and those recognitions are absolutely deserved, but this award is a great reminder that everything really starts at the elementary level.”
Brumbaugh said the program emphasizes process over performance alone.
“At Schick, we’ve worked to create experiences that are engaging for students while also bringing the community into what we do,” she said. “It’s not just about the final concert — it’s about helping everyone see the process and the growth along the way. Focusing on the process rather than just the product is where so much of the value in music education lives.”
She added that students gain skills beyond musical ability.
“Students in band learn so much more than notes on a page,” Brumbaugh said. “These early experiences shape not just future musicians, but the way students learn, grow and interact with their communities for years to come.”
As part of the recognition, Schick’s program is featured in the Advocacy in Action Archive, where music educators nationwide can view and replicate effective practices in music education.
The Advocacy in Action program highlights efforts by educators, administrators, families and community members who support music education as part of a comprehensive education for all students.
“We’re proud to provide a strong musical foundation for our students and even prouder of the national recognition it’s received through Music for All,” said Superintendent Dr. Brooke Beiter. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our music faculty in helping our students grow not only as musicians but creative learners.”
According to its website: “Music for All’s mission is to create, provide, and expand positively life-changing experiences through music. Our vision is to be a catalyst to ensure that every child in America has access and opportunity for active music-making in their scholastic environment. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization, Music for All’s events and programs serve more than 600,000 attendees annually — and more than 1.7 million program participants since 1975.”
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