Summary of Proposition 28 Study Session – AUSD Board of Trustees

At the April 29, 2025 study session, the Board of Trustees received an update on the implementation of Proposition 28, which provides ongoing state funding to expand arts and music education in K–12 public schools. The district began implementation in 2023–24, using staff surveys and site-level planning to guide initial efforts. The Board had previously approved the required FY 2023–24 Prop 28 Annual Report (below) on June 18, 2024.

Themes from Superintendent Stone’s 90-Day Listening Campaign included the need for clarity around supplemental use of funds, transparent planning, and systems to monitor impact. The Board reviewed the current Prop 28 budget: AUSD expects approximately $470,000 annually, with $592,795 projected to remain unallocated by the end of 2024–25 (see Revenue & Expenditure Summary below). These unallocated funds resulted from late receipt of state funds and some operational issues related to proper expenditure. A clear, planned process will allow AUSD to expend those funds over the next several years. A key feature of Prop 28 funding is that at least 80% of funds must go toward staffing, with up to 20% for materials and supplies.

Next steps include finalizing staffing and program design, deepening community engagement, and aligning plans with SPSAs and the LCAP. The session emphasized that Prop 28 must enhance—not replace—existing programs and align with district goals to increase academic success, support the whole child, and strengthen shared leadership.