The Irvine Unified School District has earned the Best Communities for Music Education award for the ninth consecutive year. The NAMM Foundation honor, granted to just 4% of schools in the U.S., celebrates innovative and resourceful music education programs. “IUSD has made an unwavering commitment to arts and music education,” says Brad Van Patten, IUSD director of arts education. “We are proud to offer robust programming for all of our students.” Van Patten thanked community partners, including Irvine Company, which has provided a 20-year, $45 million commitment to help fund IUSD’s music, arts and science education.
Subscribe to get the latest stories and community news from Irvine Standard delivered straight to your inbox.
"*" indicates required fields
More from Irvine Standard
-
Irvine schools earn top state honor
Seven Irvine Unified schools have been named 2026 California Distinguished Schools, the state’s highest honor for public schools. Lakeside, Rancho …
-
Natural Sciences Center brings IVC students together
The new Natural Sciences Center at Irvine Valley College is a win-win for Hinanui Swider. She benefits as both a …
-
Young Irvine leaders help fund vehicle for Police Explorer program
For Irvine teenagers interested in law enforcement, the city’s Police Explorer program offers a chance to volunteer alongside officers, assist …
-
IUSD dominates at science olympiad
Irvine Unified School District again proved its strength in STEM education at the 2026 OC Regional Science Olympiad, sending more …

