School of Rock recently released a Social Impact Study confirming that its programs positively shape students’ lives beyond just musical ability. The independently commissioned study found significant improvements in students’ emotional, creative, social, and academic development.
Based on a survey of 1,443 parents of current students under 18 years old, the results showed that parents observed the following improvements in their children:
- Emotional development: 76.4% of parents reported their children felt more confident, comfortable discussing their feelings, and supported.
- Creative growth: 84.8% of parents noted their children were better at expressing ideas and participating in group discussions.
- Family connections: 87.1% of parents said they had more meaningful conversations and a better connection with their child.
- Diversity awareness: 82.1% of parents observed their child having improved attitudes toward peers from diverse backgrounds and age groups.
- Happiness: 80.9% of parents said their children were happier since joining School of Rock.
- Emotional regulation: 80.7% of parents saw progress in their child’s ability to manage their own emotions and those of others.
Self Expression Can = Life-Changing Growth
Stacey Ryan, President of School of Rock, noted that the study validates what the company has seen firsthand for years: that their programs change lives by providing a supportive space for young people to express themselves.
“This Social Impact Study confirms what parents and students have always said — and what we’ve seen firsthand for years: School of Rock changes lives,” said Stacey Ryan, President of School of Rock. “By giving kids a place to find their voice, sharpen their confidence, and find belonging, our instructors, staff, and franchise partners are helping shape the next generation of creators and leaders.”
The Social Impact Study also found that the longer a student participates in School of Rock programs, the greater the benefits across emotional, creative, and social development, reinforcing the long-term value of music education.
“School of Rock is so much more than a music school and our locations across the world are more than places to rehearse — they’re vibrant communities where students discover confidence, creativity, resilience, and belonging. Every school serves as a safe, supportive space where young people are encouraged to step onto the stage, express themselves fully, and grow into leaders on stage and in life,” Ryan added. “It’s so rewarding to see these outcomes reflected in the research, and it’s a testament to the dedication of our instructors and staff and the power of music to change lives,” Ryan said.
Importance of Music Education
Music education is increasingly recognized as a key driver of holistic development, supporting the advancement of emotional intelligence, academic skills, and social growth.
Research has shown that students in quality music programs are more engaged in school, develop stronger cognitive abilities, and cultivate empathy and collaboration skills.
School of Rock brings this to life by providing young musicians with hands-on instruction, real performance opportunities, and mentorship, helping them grow not just as artists but as confident, well-rounded individuals.
For more information about School of Rock and the Social Impact Study, visit schoolofrock.com/signup.
About School of Rock
School of Rock helps aspiring musicians master skills, unleash creativity, and develop the tools they need to thrive in life. Founded as a single school in Philadelphia, PA., in 1998, School of Rock has become a rapidly growing international franchise with over 650 schools open and in development across 23 global markets and has grown its student count from 4,000 in 2009 to over 70,000 today.
School of Rock offers a wide variety of music lessons, including guitar lessons, singing lessons, and piano lessons. The company also sells musical instruments and music gear through its GearSelect program.
School of Rock was awarded US Patent 10,891,872 in 2021 for its innovative music education method. School of Rock is a proud supporter of Music Will (formerly Little Kids Rock) and the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTS).
School of Rock also has garnered the following industry awards in recent years: International Franchise Association’s 2025 and 2024 Franchisee of the Year Awards; six consecutive years as Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 Top Children’s Music Enrichment Brand and ranked #1 in the Children’s Enrichment Category in 2025; 2025 Best Children’s Services & Education Franchise by Global Franchise Awards; 2025 Franchise Business Review Top Franchise; 2024 Franchise Business Review Most Innovative Franchise; 2024 Top Recession-Proof Franchise by Franchise Business Review; 2024 Culture100 List by Franchise Business Review; 2024 Silver Award for Employee Satisfaction by Franchising@Work; 2024 Award Finalist by Franchising@Work; and 2021 Franchise Innovation Award for Most Innovative Use of Customer-Facing Digital Tools.
About School of Rock Carlstadt
School of Rock in Carlstadt, NJ, offers performance-based music education using the patented School of Rock Method for all ages, from young children to adults. The curriculum combines private lessons with group rehearsals, culminating in live performances at local venues. The school provides lessons in instruments like guitar, bass, drums, and keyboards, along with vocal coaching and special camps for different skill levels.
Co-founded by General Manager David Santamaria and Music Director Dominique Abita, the studio at 301 Hoboken Road, Carlstadt offers
- Private lessons: Students receive one-on-one instruction to work on their individual parts and skills.
- Group rehearsals: Weekly group rehearsals allow students to learn how to play together as a band with their peers.
- Live shows: Students perform at real venues a few times a year.
- Performance-based learning: The main goal is to get students performing in front of a live audience at local venues, creating a sense of achievement and a goal to work towards.
