Arts education in California received an unprecedented infusion of financial support in 2022. Passed by California voters, Proposition 28, the Arts and Music in Schools — Funding Guarantee and Accountability Act, guaranteed dedicated annual funding for K–12 arts education–approximately $800M to $1B annually.

As part of a study WestEd is conducting on the impact of Prop 28 on California arts education interest holders, this report examines the initial effects of Prop 28 on community arts organizations.

Key takeaways from the report include:

  • there is ongoing confusion among schools about allowable uses of funds, leading to reduced contracts and funding for many community arts providers.
  • some organizations have had to shift services—such as offering professional development or after-school programs—to stay relevant, while others face closure due to lost funding.

Despite these challenges, most respondents believe Prop 28 will ultimately expand student access to quality arts education.

The report recommends clearer guidance from the state and encourages arts organizations to diversify their offerings and form strategic partnerships with schools to adapt to the evolving funding landscape. It can also serve as a roadmap for other states considering arts education legislation.