WESTOVER — A video filmed in February 2024 by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) featuring the Crisfield High School band was honored by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) as a 2025 Golden Achievement Award winner for Excellence in the Publication and Digital Media category.

During the June meeting of the Somerset County Board of Education, school band director Heather McHenry announced the award and recognized students who took part.

It was in December 2023 when Somerset County Supervisor of Fine Arts and Secondary Science Dr. Will Gray accompanied MSDE Director of Comprehensive Arts Education Lizzie Devereux to Crisfield to see the class and hear a short performance, and meet with students to learn what the program means to them.

Mrs. McHenry said, Ms. Devereux was inspired by the students and their expressions that participation in band builds “confidence, leadership, teamwork, academic achievement and a sense of belonging and community.”

From that experience Ms. Devereux chose this class “as an example of a great arts program happening across Maryland public schools,” Mrs. McHenry said.

The five minute video for the "Arts in Our Schools" segment featured not only the entire band but remarks from Mrs. McHenry, Dr. Gray and three students, Abi Wise and Eddie Johnson, who graduated in 2024, and Katrina Diaz, a 2025 graduate.

“The video was shared on YouTube and various social media platforms,” Mrs. McHenry said. “It was also presented at the State Board of Education meeting last march, leaving many in tears.”

State Superintendent Dr. Carey M. Wright chose the video to be entered in the NSPR competition, and “our video won,” Mrs. McHenry said. “We were one of the few videos recognized nationwide for excellence.”

MSDE described the video as capturing “the heart of the Crisfield High School band program… offering an in-depth look at its culture, students, instructional methods, and the dedication of its director, Heather McHenry.”

“Viewers will see how McHenry creates a supportive environment where students are encouraged to push their limits, whether they are learning an instrument for the first time or refining their skills.

“The video also emphasizes the profound impact of music education beyond the classroom. Students share how the band has boosted their confidence, given them purpose, and deepened their appreciation for the arts.”

MSDE also pointed out that “The video ties into the Arts in Our Schools initiative, addressing the misconception that the arts are not an essential part of the Blueprint for Maryland's Future plan.”

“The video demonstrates how music education fosters personal growth, builds community, and helps students succeed in all areas of life.”

According to the NSPRA, the Excellence Award recognizes “outstanding education publications and marketing/informational materials (print and electronic), video/TV/radio programs, social media and websites.”

Involved with the video project in addition to Mrs. McHenry, Dr. Gray, and Ms. Devereux were Mateen Milan, coordinator of comprehensive arts education, and Daniel Perkins, multimedia program manager, both with MSDE. It was submitted for the national competition by Raven Hill, senior executive director of Communications and Community Engagement with MSDE.

The video is online at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojEZ9btaOGM.