Buena Park board approves Prop 28-aligned VAPA plan after district showcase of student performances

The Buena Park School District Board of Education on April 2025 unanimously approved the district's Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) plan, a Prop 28-funded program the district says will expand arts instruction, staffing and after-school enrichment across elementary and middle schools.

The plan, presented by Sandra Song, director of educational programs, and Sari Huang, chief academic officer, outlines actions to "Imagine, Create, Showcase" student work, prioritize staffing (the plan notes state rules require at least 80% of Prop 28 funds be used for staffing in larger districts), expand visual and digital arts, and leverage after-school (ELOP) time for performing arts. The board voted 5-0 to approve the plan after a public VAPA showcase that included student choir, percussion and an elementary production excerpt.

Song opened the presentation by describing the district's existing arts activity and student awards, saying, "I am thrilled to present to you the Buena Park School District's visual and Performing Arts VAPA showcase presentation." Huang summarized Prop 28 and its local implications, telling the board, "This measure ensures ongoing dedicated funding to support arts education in schools" and noted the state finalized the funding in May 2024.

Board discussion centered on implementation and continuity through grade levels. Trustee Jensen asked whether the district risked…