Proposition 28 is a California ballot measure passed in November 2022 that mandates additional state funding for arts and music education in K-12 public schools. It allocates 1% of the state’s annual K-12 education budget — roughly $1 billion per year — exclusively for arts and music programs.

Prop 28 funding began rolling out to schools in the 2023–24 school year.

Yes. Unlike one-time grants, Prop 28 is written into state law and renews annually, giving schools a reliable, recurring source of arts funding.

No. Schools are prohibited from using Prop 28 funds to replace existing arts spending. It must be used as additional, supplemental funding on top of what schools already spend.

Each school receives funding based on two factors: total student enrollment and the percentage of low-income students. Schools with higher concentrations of low-income students receive a larger per-pupil allocation.

Can schools combine Prop 28 funds with other funding sources like ELOP?

Yes. Schools must spend their annual allocation within the fiscal year. Unspent funds do not typically roll over, making it important to have a vendor contract in place early.

Yes, as long as the program is arts or music focused and meets compliance requirements. Our after-school music programs are designed to qualify.

At least 80% of Prop 28 funds must be spent on personnel meaning teachers, instructors, or contracted educators delivering the arts programming. No more than 20% can go toward materials, supplies, or administrative costs.

Schools with 500 or more students must ensure that at least 50% of their Prop 28 personnel spending goes toward credentialed arts teachers. Our team includes credentialed instructors to help districts meet this threshold.

Schools must submit an annual report to the California Department of Education detailing how funds were spent, what programs were offered, and how many students were served. We provide our partner schools with all the documentation they need to file accurately.

Yes, but only up to 20% of their allocation can go toward non-personnel costs like instruments, sheet music, or technology. We can help schools plan their budget to stay within compliance.

Schools that misuse funds may be required to return the money to the state and could face additional penalties. Working with a compliant vendor like us helps protect schools from these risks.

Our programs are specifically designed around Prop 28’s requirements. We handle curriculum, credentialed instructors, scheduling, and reporting so districts can be confident they’re in full compliance.

Absolutely. Contact us and we’ll help you identify your school’s allocation and map it to the right program for your students.

We can typically onboard a new school within a few weeks of contract signing. Our turnkey model means there’s very little lift on your end.

Absolutely. We can supplement existing programs or fill gaps in grade levels, instruments, or scheduling that your current staff doesn’t cover.

Reach out through our contact page or give us a call (415) 236-0430 and one of our program coordinators will walk you through the process, help you understand your funding, and design a program that fits your school.