District lays out Prop 28 arts plan: $391K allocation, emphasis on staffing and equity

District staff and an arts planning committee presented the district’s approach to Prop 28 funding for arts and music in schools. Director of curriculum (speaker 11) summarized compliance requirements: at least 80% of Prop 28 funds must be used on staff (teachers, classified arts staff or teaching artists); the funds must supplement rather than supplant existing programs. Committee members described drafting a PK–12 arts plan, partnerships with local arts organizations and a desire to align hires with student diversity.

The committee reported a current two‑year allocation of roughly $391,000 (figures in presentation), with three years to spend current allocations and annual allotments expected thereafter tied to enrollment and percent of low‑income students. Committee members emphasized the need to balance hiring, facilities and program expansion across elementary to high school while avoiding supplanting existing staff. The group proposed community feedback forums early next spring and a board approval target in June. Trustees asked about after‑school uses and coordination with other funding streams such as Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) to extend arts access beyond the school day; staff said Prop 28 funds must be used during the school day but the district is exploring leveraging other funds.