Carmel Clay Schools (CCS) is proud to announce it has been officially recognized as one of the nation’s premier districts for music education. CCS joins an elite group of only 1,000 public, private, charter, and parochial schools and districts across the country to receive this prestigious national honor for championing music as a core pillar of student development.

At the heart of the CCS mission is a commitment to a well-rounded education and student opportunity. CCS provides robust exposure and support for the arts, with comprehensive music education programming available to all students from kindergarten through 12th grade. This continuity ensures that every student has the opportunity to find their voice, whether through vocal performance, instrumental mastery, or general music appreciation.

"Music education is not just an extracurricular; it is a fundamental part of how our students learn to think, collaborate, and express themselves," said Chris Kreke, Music Department Chair and Carmel High School Teacher of the Year. "We are incredibly proud of this recognition because it reflects the hard work of our educators and the dedication of our students who understand that music is a vital language for life."

This achievement is a testament to the relationship between the school district and the surrounding community. The City of Carmel is widely known for its vibrant arts scene and deep-seated love for music and performance. CCS is honored to play a central role in this culture, inspiring the next generation of performers, patrons, and creative thinkers.

CCS celebrates the diverse opportunities provided to students. From first-graders picking up their first instrument to high school seniors performing on national stages, we remain dedicated to fostering an environment where the arts can thrive.