Prop 28: A Comprehensive Guide for California School Leaders

Prop 28 in Action: What California School Leaders Need to Know

Proposition 28, passed by California voters in 2022, dedicates permanent state funding for arts and music education in public K–12 schools. Beginning in the 2023–2024 school year, Prop 28 allocates approximately $800 million to $1 billion annually to expand access to visual and performing arts education, with a strong emphasis on equity.

This guide is designed for school administrators, district leaders, and curriculum planners seeking to understand Prop 28 requirements, funding usage, and how to implement arts programming effectively — especially through partnerships with organizations like After School Music Academy.

What is Prop 28?

Proposition 28 is a California state law that:

• Provides ongoing funding for arts and music programs
• Requires districts to spend at least 80% of funds on staff for arts instruction
• Encourages the inclusion of community-based arts and music providers
• Is intended to close equity gaps by prioritizing funding for high-needs schools

How Much Funding Do Schools Receive?

Funding is based on:

• Enrollment data from the prior school year
• Unduplicated pupil count (students who are English learners, foster youth, or from low-income households)

Example:

A school with 500+ students will receive an allocation that must be used primarily for:

• Hiring certificated or classified arts educators (minimum 80%)
• Purchasing materials, supplies, and equipment (up to 19%)
• Administrative costs (no more than 1%)

What If the 80% Staffing Requirement Isn’t Feasible?

We understand that hiring full-time staff or meeting the 80% staffing threshold might not be immediately feasible for every district, especially in rural or high-need communities. That’s why the California Department of Education offers a Prop 28 80/20 waiver.

This waiver allows schools to request flexibility in how funds are allocated, giving administrators more room to work with community-based partners, contract-based educators, or phased implementation plans while still remaining compliant.

After School Music Academy can support your team in navigating this process, from program planning to waiver guidance; so your students benefit without delays or red tape.

Allowable Uses of Prop 28 Funds

Schools can use Prop 28 funds to support:

• Salaries and benefits for new or existing music/art staff
• Partnering with community-based organizations for enrichment programs
• Instruments, sheet music, software, and classroom materials
• Professional development for arts instructors

Restrictions:

• Funds cannot be used to supplant existing state or local arts program budgets
• Annual reports on spending and outcomes must be submitted to the state

Partnering with After School Music Academy

After School Music Academy is an ELOP- and Prop 28-aligned provider offering:

• • Rhythm-based music instruction
  • Music and movement for early learners
  • Ensemble and performance-based programs
  • Bilingual and culturally relevant music education

By partnering with us, schools meet Prop 28’s goals of:

• Equity in access to arts education
• Instruction led by qualified music professionals
• Curriculum that supports student creativity and social-emotional growth

Prop 28 + ELOP: A Strategic Blend

Many school leaders are leveraging Prop 28 funds in tandem with ELOP to:

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • Offer extended music programming after school and during intersession
                          • Employ arts instructors across both programs to meet staffing ratios
                          • Create consistent student engagement throughout the academic year

Impact: Why Prop 28 Matters for Your District

Prop 28 gives administrators the power to:

• Hire dedicated music educators
• Expand access to underserved student groups
• Integrate music across the school day and into after-school enrichment

These partnerships must align with the district’s approved ELOP plan and be accountable to ELOP program outcomes.

How Prop 28 Works with ELOP & CCSPP

Prop 28 funding can go even further when paired with ELOP and CCSPP, allowing schools to embed music education within broader enrichment strategies.

• Prop 28 covers dedicated music staff, curriculum, and equipment.
• ELOP provides the time and structure for after-school and summer programming.
• CCSPP adds support systems like wellness, community engagement, and family-focused arts events.

Together, they create a well-rounded, sustainable model that doesn’t just teach music—but uses it to uplift student outcomes and community connection.

Ready to Expand Music Education?

After School Music Academy is here to help schools implement impactful, standards-aligned music programming that qualifies under Prop 28.