RBUSD Requests Public Input For Music And Arts Programs Funding

REDONDO BEACH, CA — Redondo Beach voters overwhelmingly passed a proposition that allocated more funding for music and arts programs in November's election, and now Redondo Beach Unified officials are asking for the public's help in determining priorities for the district's schools.

Proposition 28 provides roughly $1 billion each year to California public schools to increase areas and music programs. The amount of funding for each school in RBUSD will be based on enrollment, with additional funding for Title I schools.

This would provide schools with just over $1 million for the creative programs a year, the district said.

"We are thrilled to receive additional funding to support our mission and grow our programming," RBUSD officials said.

Proposition 28 sets funding aside every year for arts and music education in California’s K-12 public schools. The measure requires funding at least equal to 1 percent of the total revenue from the 1988 schools funding measure Proposition 98.

Research from Edsource shows that children who participate in the arts achieve higher in academic subjects, have better attendance and experience increased social and emotional well-being. According to a statement from RBUSD, one of the district's main goals is to provide well-rounded programming to meet the needs of every child in its schools.

The RBUSD Educational Services Team asked for input from stakeholders to gain insight into their priorities in regard to arts and music education. The funding could allow the district to expand traditional offerings to include music, theater, dance and visual areas as well as specific contemporary subjects like animation, filmmaking and graphic design.

"As the funding RBUSD will be receiving is limited to 1%, it is important for RBUSD decision makers to fully understand the stakeholders' desires and priorities," district officials said.

To provide input for the district, individuals can anonymously fill out this survey. Provided answers will only be reported by school and grade band, according to the district.

Patch staffer Paige Austin contributed to this report.