CRISFIELD, MD (July 10, 2025) — The Crisfield High School Band has received a prestigious Award of Excellence in the In‑House Produced Video category from the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) as part of its 2025 Publications and Digital Media Excellence Awards.

The award‑winning video was submitted by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), following a request from Dr. Carey Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. The entry showcases the dedication and musical spirit of Crisfield High students under the leadership of Heather McHenry, the school’s Band Director.

Watch the award‑winning video:

NSPRA’s Publications and Digital Media Excellence Awards recognize outstanding achievement in school communication. The In‑House Produced Video category celebrates original video content created by schools without external vendors, judged for clarity, creativity, impact, and overall excellence.

See the Crisfield High School Band's recognition on NSPRA's website.

Band members featured in the video include:
Emily W., Jurnee G., Trenton B., Edward J., Conor K., Bry'Jah W., Mar'Kiera G., Katrina D., Aaliyah M., Tyler C., Abigail W., Phoebe W., Mya P., Zachary G., Mya H., Lukas L., Cienna S., Nicolas S., Noah S., Isabella M., Jeremy C., Dillon M., Carrie D., Isaac M., Caimeke J., DaJanell D., Emma E., Autumn A., Ashton D., and Steven C.

Several student band members, along with Mrs. McHenry, were recognized for this achievement during the June 2025 Somerset County Board of Education Meeting, where they were applauded for their exceptional creativity and school pride.

“It is an honor for our Crisfield High School band program to be recognized, where students not only gain musical skills, but also the discipline, confidence, and teamwork that prepares them for success far beyond the classroom,” shared Heather McHenry, Crisfield High School Band Director. “Through music, they are not just learning to perform-they are learning to lead, to persevere, and to believe in themselves. I'm incredibly proud of our students, who show up every day ready to challenge themselves, and represent our community with pride. This program embodies the spirit of unity and connection-proving that the arts are not just essential, but powerful.”

Somerset County Public Schools extends its congratulations to Mrs. McHenry, the band, and all who contributed to this project. This national honor shines a spotlight on Crisfield Academy & High School's commitment to excellence in arts education.

The Somerset Board of Education recently recognized the Crisfield High School Band at the June 2025 regular meeting for receiving an Award of Excellence in the In‑House Produced Video category from the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) as part of its 2025 Publications and Digital Media Excellence Awards.

(First Row L-R) CHS Band Director Heather McHenry, students Bry'Jah W., Edward J., Trenton B., Emily W., Jurnee G., Connor K., Lukas L., Superintendent Dr. Ava Tasker-Mitchell

(Second Row L-R) Somerset Board of Education Members Mary Beth Bozman, Matthew Lankford, William McInturff, Andrew Gleason

Somerset County Public Schools

Crisfield High School Band Honored with National Award for Excellence in Video Production