OKEECHOBEE — At the Tuesday, March 10 meeting of the Okeechobee County School Board, the board proclaimed the month of March as Music in Our Schools Month.

Superintendent Dylan Tedders read the proclamation, which states:

“WHEREAS, for more than 40 years, March has been officially designated by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) as Music In Our Schools Month® (MIOSM®), encouraging communities across the nation to focus on music education; and

"WHEREAS, music education is part of a well-rounded education for every student as outlined in the Every Student Succeeds Act; and

"WHEREAS, the purpose of this celebration is to raise awareness of the lasting positive impact of music education on the academic, personal, and professional growth of our students; and

"WHEREAS, music education shapes the way our students understand themselves and the world around them, allowing for a deep engagement with learning; and

"WHEREAS, Music In Our Schools Month reminds us that school is where all children should have access to music; and

"WHEREAS, music educators, students and communities throughout Florida demonstrate the importance of quality music education programs to the lives of young people

"WHEREAS, the Okeechobee County School Board joins our music students, educators and communities in celebrating the power of music education.”

Okeechobee County Schools understand the importance of music in a child’s life and education. Music can be a wonderful way to learn about other cultures, learn different languages, and recongize emotions. Dancing to music is also a great way to keep children physically active and keep the body healthy as it helps develop muscle strength and improve coordination.

If your child is interested in learning to play an instrument Yearling Middle, Osceola Middle, and Okeechobee High School all offer excellent band programs.