SR 1075: Music in Our Schools Month; recognize March 2026

Senate Resolution 1075

By: Senator Halpern of the 39th

A RESOLUTION

Recognizing March 2026 as Music in Our Schools Month; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, for more than 40 years, the month of March has been nationally recognized as Music in Our Schools Month, a time to celebrate the role of music education in the academic and personal development of students; and

WHEREAS, music education provides students with opportunities to develop creativity, discipline, teamwork, and critical thinking while engaging in meaningful individual and group activities; and

WHEREAS, research shows that students who participate in music education demonstrate improvements in verbal memory, language development, reading ability, and executive functioning, and learning to play an instrument at a young age can contribute to improved academic performance later in life; and

WHEREAS, schools that offer music programs often experience graduation rates more than 20 percent higher than schools without such programs, and students participating in music instruction can experience academic improvements of more than 40 percent; and

WHEREAS, Georgia is home to more than 4,000 music educators and over 45 institutions with postsecondary programs dedicated to preparing future music teachers, demonstrating a strong commitment to music education and the arts; and

WHEREAS, the Georgia Music Educators Association, founded in 1938, has long supported music education by providing professional development opportunities for teachers and performance opportunities for students, including statewide evaluations and programs in band, choral, and orchestral music, in which thousands of students participate each year; and

WHEREAS, national organizations such as the Recording Academy and the GRAMMY Museum provide valuable music education initiatives, including mentorship programs, educator training, and career development opportunities that connect students and teachers with professionals across the music industry, helping to strengthen classroom instruction and expand pathways to careers in music and the creative arts; and

WHEREAS, programs such as GRAMMY U and GRAMMY in the Schools offer workshops, networking opportunities, career panels, and hands-on experiences that allow students to learn directly from recording artists, producers, and industry professionals, helping bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world music careers; and

WHEREAS, these initiatives also support music educators by providing professional development resources, educational programming, and recognition programs such as the Music Educator Award, which celebrates teachers who have made lasting contributions to music education and student achievement; and

WHEREAS, the study of music is an essential component of a well-rounded education, helping students develop creativity, problem-solving abilities, cultural understanding, and skills in both the production and performance of music; and

WHEREAS, recognizing Music in Our Schools Month highlights the importance of supporting music educators and ensuring students continue to have access to music programs that enrich their academic experience and personal development.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body recognize March 2026 as Music in Our Schools Month in honor of the music educators, students, and organizations that promote the value of music education. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the press.