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District reports expanded arts programs under Prop. 28 funding; board approves AMS annual report
Summary
District staff said Prop. 28 (Arts & Music in Schools) funding supported VAPA specialists and arts experiences for thousands of students; the board approved the annual AMS report and VAPA update and trustees discussed hiring, performance venues, and community partnerships.
District officials told the Santa Maria‑Bonita School District Board on Sept. 10 that the Prop. 28 Arts & Music in Schools (AMS) allocation has expanded arts access across elementary and junior high sites.
Laurie Graff (presenting the AMS report) said the district's 2024–25 AMS allocation allowed VAPA specialists to reach thousands of students but that only a portion of the allocation was expended because staffing is still being built out. She stated that total 2024–25 AMS expenditures were $1,362,106 and that AMS funds are subject to a three‑year rollover rule.
VAPA specialists who spoke described rotating schedules that put specialists into many classrooms and noted offerings including music, dance, theater and visual arts. Shelly Cox said students receive a 50‑minute lesson once a week on an 8–10 week cycle, while Kurt Payne and Linda Zahn detailed professional‑learning supports, community partnerships (PCPA, Cal Poly Performing Arts Center, Santa Maria Philharmonic, local foundations), and plans to expand junior high electives and culminating performances.
Trustees asked about hiring progress, the role of foundation funds (Brooks Foundation) and how the district plans to provide dedicated performance spaces. Staff acknowledged the space constraints at some campuses and said they are working with community partners and architects for future bonded school planning to secure better performance venues.
The board voted to approve the AMS annual report and VAPA update.
Next steps: continue hiring to fill VAPA teams, pursue partnerships for performance venues, and implement parent‑night culminating activities after each specialist cycle.
