NEWS UPDATES
CDE UPDATE
As of Friday, October 17, 2025 the California Department of Education (CDE) Proposition 28—Arts and Music in Schools Funding web page has been updated to include the following:
As per California Education Code (EC) Section 8820(g)(4), the CDE has posted a master file inclusive of all annual reports submitted by local educational agencies (LEAs) to the AMS web page within the second tab “LEA Web Portal and Reports.” Please note that the CDE is currently reaching out to LEAs that have not yet submitted their board- or governing body-approved annual report. As a more comprehensive dataset becomes available, an updated master file will be posted.
Additionally, the AMS Portal is now active for the 2025–26 allocation and has the following functionality:
• The portal is now allowing LEAs to complete the annual certifications for the current school year (EC Section 8820[g][1–3]) and written waiver requests for the new 2025–26 allocation (EC Section 8820[h]).
• The submission window for waiver requests for the 2023–24 and the 2024–25 allocations remain open throughout the corresponding three-year expenditure periods.
Please share this update with colleagues who may benefit, and encourage them to join the AMS listserv by sending a blank message to join-prop28@mlist.cde.ca.gov.
LAUSD UPDATE
The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) quietly added $30 million to its arts budget amid allegations that it violated Proposition 28 by using new state funds to replace existing arts funding instead of supplementing it. Critics, including former Superintendent Austin Beutner and union leaders, claim the district misled the public about its arts funding practices. Despite the district’s denial of any wrongdoing, officials hope the additional funds will quell controversy and align with the intended spirit of Proposition 28. The board approved the new budget amid ongoing dissatisfaction from parents and educators.
Email us for more information on accessing these funds.
Unlock Prop 28’s Full Potential
Prop 28 allows up to 20% funding for outside arts programs & partnerships, including organizations like ours.
But, did you know that Prop 28 also allows schools to waive the 20% funding limit with a written request by the principal to the California Department of Education, citing “good cause.”
Empower your students through the arts.
Unleash the Complete Power of 28
Certificated or classified employees aren’t strictly required for arts and music instruction.
The talents and expertise of experienced professional teaching artists can be harnessed, provided the classroom teacher is present during the music lesson.
Collaborate with us and unleash creativity without limits.
Engage with Experienced Teaching Artists
Nurture your students’ natural talents with experienced music teachers, dedicated to inspiring creativity through our nationally recognized curriculum. Enrich your school with the magic of music!
Maximize Your Arts Funds Effectively
Access Prop 28 funds for exceptional teachers, discounted instruments, and essential music supplies, ensuring proven arts program success. Plan ahead, as funds are available for up to 3 years.
Embrace Flexibility for Your School’s Rhythm
Discover exceptional flexibility in scheduling, customized to perfectly accommodate your school’s unique needs. Our program includes tailored hours and days – ensuring a seamless integration into your curriculum.
Partner with an Approved District Vendor
Collaborate with an established vendor approved by LAUSD as well as other CA school districts – delivering motivating lessons that foster each child’s growth and success.
Waiver Request – Available now for submissions through the three-year expenditure period. LEAs should submit a waiver if seeking exemption from Education Code Chapter 5.1, Section 8820, Subsection (g)(1) for good cause. SUBMIT HERE
Overview of Proposition 28 – AMS Financial & Audit Requirements
- Applies to funding from the Arts and Music in Schools (AMS) Funding Guarantee and Accountability Act.
- Audits must include scrutiny of funds received and spent under Proposition 28, verifying adherence to statutory requirements.
Scope of the Program
- Targets kindergarten through grade twelve local educational agencies (LEAs), including school districts, charter schools, and county offices of education.
- Charter schools must independently meet all statutory requirements.
Conditions for Receiving Funds
- LEAs must certify annual use of funds for arts education programs.
- For LEAs with 500+ students, at least 80% of funds should be used for paying educational staff for arts instruction; the rest for training, supplies, materials, and arts partnership programs, unless waived.
- Funds must supplement, not replace, existing arts education funding.
- Administrative expenses from the funds are capped at 1%.
- Annual reports detailing program specifics must be submitted and made publicly available.
Use of Funds
- Funds are allotted annually and can be used over three fiscal years.
- LEAs must report unspent funds to the California Department of Education (CDE) for reallocation.
Financial Reporting and Auditing
- LEAs report at the agency level, despite funds being allocated to school sites.
- Standardized Account Code Structure (SACS) codes are specified for AMS funding.
- Annual audits verify compliance with the funding requirements, including the proper expenditure and supplementing (not supplanting) existing arts funding.
Compliance Requirements
- Instructional costs must constitute at least 80% of the spending for LEAs with 500+ students, aimed at staffing for arts education.
- Administrative costs are limited to 1% of the allocation.
- Compliance with these requirements is checked during annual audits.
Examples and Guidance
Frequently Asked Questions 
