Teaching and Learning Division: Supporting Arts Education Through Prop 28
The Teaching and Learning Division of the Sweetwater Union High School District is committed to fostering an innovative and inclusive learning environment for all students. As part of its mission, the division provides comprehensive support to schools, ensuring high-quality instruction and access to resources that prepare students for college, career, and life.
Under the leadership of the College and Career Readiness (CCR) and Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) Department, the Teaching and Learning Division is spearheading the district-wide implementation of the Prop 28 Arts and Music in Schools (AMS) Initiative. This groundbreaking initiative guarantees sustained funding for schools to expand and enhance arts and music education.
Roles and Responsibilities of the Teaching and Learning Division for Prop 28
Providing Professional Development
Deliver tailored training to certificated and classified staff, equipping them with innovative strategies to expand arts programs.
Facilitate workshops on best practices for integrating arts into core curricula and leveraging resources for impactful programs.
Supporting Budget Development
Equip schools with budgeting tools and templates to develop site-specific plans aligned with their unique arts education needs.
Guide school leaders in allocating resources equitably and effectively to maximize the impact of Prop 28 funds.
Engaging Community Stakeholders
Assist schools in creating opportunities for collaboration with students, parents, staff, and community partners to shape arts programs that reflect local priorities and interests.
Promote transparency and inclusion through School Site Council meetings, surveys, and focus groups.
Expanding Arts Programs
Encourage the development of new courses and the enhancement of existing programs in disciplines such as visual arts, music, theater, and digital arts.
Facilitate partnerships with local arts organizations, higher education institutions, and industry leaders to enrich student experiences.
Ensuring Compliance and Accountability
Collaborate with other district departments to ensure adherence to Prop 28 requirements, including proper allocation, reporting, and compliance monitoring.
Support schools in documenting expenditures and program outcomes for annual reporting.
Promoting Equity and Access
Focus on providing all students with access to high-quality arts education, especially those in underserved communities.
Utilize data-driven approaches to address disparities and allocate resources where they are needed most.
Acknowledging Supporting Departments
Special thanks to the supporting departments within the Teaching and Learning Division whose collaboration is integral to the success of the Prop 28 AMS Initiative:
Curriculum and Instruction: Guiding the integration of arts education into comprehensive curriculum frameworks and ensuring alignment with state and district standards.
Research and Evaluation: Providing data-driven insights to assess the effectiveness of arts programs, identify areas for improvement, and ensure equitable resource distribution.
State and Federal Programs: Offering expertise in compliance with funding regulations, ensuring programs meet state and federal requirements, and providing equitable access to resources.
Educational Technology: Enhancing arts instruction through access to digital tools, platforms, and innovative technologies such as music production software and digital art tools.
Impact of Prop 28 on the Community
Through Prop 28, the Teaching and Learning Division aims to:
Empower educators with the tools and resources to inspire creativity and innovation in students.
Enrich student learning experiences by integrating the arts into their education journey.
Strengthen community ties by fostering collaboration between schools and local stakeholders.
Build sustainable arts programs that reflect the district’s commitment to holistic student development.
The expertise of the CCR and VAPA Department with the support of other district divisions, the Teaching and Learning Division ensures that Prop 28 transforms arts and music education across the district. Together, we are shaping a future where every student has the opportunity to explore their creative potential and thrive in a dynamic, arts-rich environment.
School Roles and Responsibilities: Expanding Arts Programs Through Prop 28 AMS
As part of the district's commitment to expanding and enriching the arts education experience, Middle and High schools play a vital role in the successful implementation of the Prop 28 Arts and Music in Schools (AMS) Initiative. With the goal of providing all students with enhanced opportunities to explore and develop their artistic talents, schools must focus on community engagement, budget planning, and strategic collaboration with district departments to ensure resources are used effectively.
Key Responsibilities for Expanding Arts Programs:
Engage the School Community
Schools must gather input from various stakeholders—students, parents, staff, and community partners—to inform the development of their arts programs. This includes conducting surveys, holding meetings, and using focus groups to understand the needs and preferences of the school community. The feedback should be central to shaping the vision for arts programs and courses that meet the needs of all students, with a focus on equitable access to opportunities.
Develop Preliminary Budget Plans
Based on the community feedback, each school must develop a preliminary budget plan for Prop 28 funding, prioritizing areas such as:
Expanding or launching new arts courses (visual arts, music, dance, theater, etc.)
Hiring additional staff or providing professional development for existing staff
Purchasing materials, equipment, or technology to support arts education
Schools should work closely with the Finance and CCR/VAPA departments to ensure the budget aligns with the district’s allocation and complies with Prop 28 guidelines.
Lead Collaboration Across Departments
Schools must work closely with several district departments to ensure the successful implementation of their arts programs. Key departments and their roles include:
Human Resources (HR): Coordinate staffing needs to hire new arts instructors or retain existing ones. HR will assist in recruiting qualified candidates, ensuring proper certifications, and facilitating the hiring process for both certificated and classified staff.
Finance: Support the creation of detailed budget plans and ensure Prop 28 funds are allocated and spent according to district policies and Prop 28 requirements. This includes working with the principal to track expenditures and ensure compliance with the budget.
Legal and Bargaining: Collaborate with bargaining units to ensure that any staffing changes or contract adjustments related to new courses or staff positions align with collective bargaining agreements. This may include negotiating terms related to arts staffing or class sizes.
CCR/VAPA: Ensure that arts programs align with the College and Career Readiness vision and goals. Provide guidance on course offerings and alignment with the district’s overall arts education strategy. The VAPA team will also support schools with best practices and resources for effective program delivery.
Curriculum and Instruction: Assist in integrating arts into the broader curriculum framework, ensuring that new or revised arts courses meet state standards and complement other subject areas. Provide guidance on curriculum development, instructional materials, and effective pedagogical practices.
Build and Optimize the Master Schedule
Schools must build a master schedule that accommodates new arts courses and provides students with opportunities to engage in the expanded arts program. This may include:
Incorporating arts courses into existing time slots or creating new periods dedicated to arts electives.
Balancing class sizes to ensure effective instruction while making efficient use of resources.
Coordinating with the HR department to ensure sufficient staffing for the expanded arts program and avoiding scheduling conflicts.
Ensuring equitable access to arts courses for all students, with a particular focus on underserved populations.
Hiring and Staffing
Hiring staff for new arts courses or expanding existing positions is a critical part of the process. Schools should:
Work with HR to post job openings and recruit qualified arts educators or specialists.
Ensure that positions are filled in a timely manner to allow for curriculum development and student enrollment in new courses.
If necessary, consider providing professional development for existing staff members to equip them with the skills needed to teach new arts courses or implement expanded programs.
Monitor and Adjust Based on Feedback and Data
After the initial implementation, schools should monitor the success of their arts programs by collecting data on student participation, achievement, and satisfaction. Schools should:
Use feedback from students, parents, and teachers to assess whether programs are meeting expectations.
Work with the Research and Evaluation department to analyze program outcomes and make adjustments as needed.
Ensure ongoing communication with stakeholders to ensure continuous improvement.
Impact of Prop 28 on the School Community
Through the effective expansion of arts programs and the strategic allocation of resources, schools will:
Enhance educational opportunities for all students, helping them explore and develop their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills through the arts.
Foster a more engaging and inclusive learning environment that supports student growth in areas such as self-expression, collaboration, and cultural awareness.
Prepare students for future success by providing them with the skills and experiences needed for careers in the arts, entertainment, and other creative industries.
Strengthen community involvement by providing students and families with more opportunities to engage in arts events, performances, and exhibitions.
By aligning community feedback, budget planning, staffing, and scheduling, schools will ensure that Prop 28 funding is used effectively to provide an enriching and sustainable arts education program for their students.
Middle School Site 23-24 Allocation 24-25 Allocation
Bonita Vista Middle School $118,197.00 $123,326.00
Castle Park Middle School $125,564.00 $106,098.00
Chula Vista Middle School $106,886.00 $103,930.00
EastLake Middle School $210,954.00 $209,338.00
Granger Junior High School $139,808.00 $121,272.00
Hilltop Middle School $144,097.00 $129,831.00
Launch Virtual Academy $86,893.00 $84,286.00
Mar Vista Academy $98,246.00 $82,229.00
Montgomery Middle School $127,404.00 $113,105.00
National City Middle School $128,024.00 $108,701.00
Options Secondary School $12,651.00 $10,039.00
Rancho del Rey Middle School $209,147.00 $207,883.00
Southwest Middle School $75,786.00 $77,485.00
High School Site 23-24 Allocation 24-25 Allocation
Bonita Vista High School $294,504.00 $274,472.00
Castle Park High School $249,158.00 $231,153.00
Chula Vista High School $350,291.00 $329,771.00
Eastlake High School $354,342.00 $333,877.00
Hilltop High School $314,946.00 $301,671.00
Launch Virtual Academy $86,893.00 $84,286.00
Mar Vista High School $235,801.00 $208,873.00
Montgomery High School $302,925.00 $276,982.00
Options Secondary School $12,651.00 $10,039.00
Olympian High School $305,108.00 $289,372.00
Otay Ranch High School $336,740.00 $329,459.00
Palomar High School $40,678.00 $50,917.00
San Ysidro High School $396,919.00 $323,100.00
Southwest High School $295,561.00 $270,824.00
Sweetwater High School $482,671.00 $419,873.00
Finance Division: Supporting Prop 28 Arts and Music in Schools (AMS) Implementation
The Finance Division of the Sweetwater Union High School District plays a critical role in ensuring the effective and compliant allocation of resources to support the district’s goals. As a key partner in implementing the Prop 28 Arts and Music in Schools (AMS) Initiative, the Finance Division is dedicated to helping schools expand arts education opportunities for students while adhering to state regulations and maintaining financial accountability.
Roles and Responsibilities of the Finance Division in Prop 28 AMS
Budget Analysis and Development
Collaborate with school principals, the CCR/VAPA department, and the Teaching and Learning Division to develop site-specific budget plans that align with the unique needs of each school’s arts programs.
Provide Budget Analysts to review and evaluate preliminary budget proposals, ensuring alignment with Prop 28 rules for expenditures.
Position Control
Work with Human Resources (HR) to oversee the creation and management of arts-related positions funded by Prop 28.
Ensure that staffing decisions, such as hiring new arts educators or reassigning existing staff, are appropriately reflected in the budget and comply with district policies and collective bargaining agreements.
Budget Line Management
Establish clear and accurate budget lines for Prop 28 expenditures, categorizing spending on staff, supplies, equipment, professional development, and other program needs.
Assist schools in monitoring their allocated funds and provide guidance on appropriate uses of Prop 28 resources, with a focus on maximizing the impact of funding on arts education.
Audits and Compliance
Conduct regular audits to ensure that Prop 28 funds are spent in compliance with AMS guidelines and district policies.
Support schools in preparing for annual reporting requirements by providing templates, tools, and assistance in documenting expenditures and program outcomes.
Collaborate with Legal and Bargaining Units to address compliance questions and ensure transparency in the use of funds.
Expenditure Monitoring
Track and monitor overall Prop 28 expenditures at the district and site levels, ensuring that funds are used equitably and effectively.
Provide regular updates to school principals, CCR/VAPA, and other stakeholders on spending progress and any potential adjustments needed to maintain compliance.
Work closely with the Teaching and Learning Division to align financial decisions with instructional priorities and community needs.
Collaboration with Other Departments
To support the successful implementation of Prop 28, the Finance Division collaborates closely with:
School Principals: Assisting with the creation of site-specific budget plans and monitoring expenditures.
Legal and Bargaining Units: Ensuring that spending decisions and staffing align with collective bargaining agreements and legal requirements.
Human Resources (HR): Managing the financial aspects of hiring new staff or reassigning existing employees to support expanded arts programs.
CCR/VAPA and Teaching and Learning: Aligning financial decisions with the district’s strategic vision for arts education and providing resources to schools for effective program delivery.
Supporting Certificated and Classified Staff, Parents, and Students
The Finance Division is committed to fostering transparency and accountability in the use of Prop 28 funds to ensure that all stakeholders—certificated and classified staff, parents, students, and the broader community—see the direct benefits of this initiative. Key efforts include:
Providing training and support to school staff on budget development and expenditure tracking.
Offering clear communication about the guidelines and requirements for Prop 28 spending.
Ensuring that resources are distributed equitably to enhance arts education opportunities for all students.
The Importance of Financial Stewardship in Prop 28
Through effective financial management, the Finance Division ensures that Prop 28 funding is used to:
Expand arts programs that reflect the diverse interests and needs of students.
Provide schools with the resources necessary to hire qualified staff and acquire essential supplies and equipment.
Support professional development for educators to enhance the quality of arts instruction.
By maintaining a strong focus on compliance, accountability, and collaboration, the Finance Division plays a vital role in ensuring that Prop 28 transforms arts education across the district, creating lasting opportunities for students to explore and develop their creative potential.
Human Resources Division: Roles and Responsibilities in Supporting Prop 28 Implementation
The Human Resources (HR) Division of the Sweetwater Union High School District is pivotal in supporting the expansion of arts education under the Prop 28 Arts and Music in Schools (AMS) Initiative. By ensuring the effective recruitment, hiring, certification, and credentialing of arts educators and support staff, HR plays a vital role in bringing the district’s vision for enhanced arts opportunities to life.
In collaboration with other district departments, school sites, and the California Department of Education (CDE) guidelines, HR is committed to maintaining compliance with state regulations and district policies while addressing the unique needs of schools in their efforts to expand and improve arts programs.
HR Roles and Responsibilities in Prop 28 AMS Implementation
Hiring and Recruitment
Collaborate with school sites to assess staffing needs for arts programs, identifying positions required to expand current offerings or introduce new arts courses.
Actively recruit qualified candidates through district employment resources (HR Employment), job fairs, and other outreach efforts.
Promote equal opportunity and diversity in hiring, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated fairly based on their qualifications and suitability for the role.
Screening and Credentialing
Conduct thorough screening and background checks for all applicants to ensure the safety and security of students and staff.
Verify that all certificated applicants hold the appropriate credentials to teach arts subjects, in compliance with state standards and the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) requirements.
Assist classified staff and non-certificated applicants in meeting qualifications for arts-related roles, ensuring compliance with district policies and Prop 28 AMS guidelines.
Staff Certification and Compliance
Ensure all new hires, whether certificated or classified, meet the district’s professional standards and credentialing requirements.
Provide resources to existing staff for obtaining additional credentials or certifications needed to support the expanded arts programs.
Maintain detailed records to ensure ongoing compliance with certification requirements for arts educators.
Collaboration Across Departments
HR works closely with other divisions to support the implementation of Prop 28:
Legal and Bargaining Units: Address hiring terms, contracts, and other employment agreements while adhering to collective bargaining agreements.
Fiscal Services: Align budget allocations with staffing needs to ensure funding supports the hiring of new staff or expanded roles for existing employees.
CCR/VAPA and Teaching and Learning Divisions: Ensure that staffing decisions align with the district’s strategic vision for arts education and instructional priorities.
School Sites: Partner with principals to identify staffing gaps, prioritize hiring for high-demand areas, and align new hires with the unique needs of each school’s arts program.
Compliance with Prop 28 AMS Guidelines
Align hiring practices with state guidelines outlined by the California Department of Education’s Prop 28 Arts and Music in Schools Fund (CDE Prop 28 Resources).
Ensure that all positions funded by Prop 28 meet the requirements for supporting arts and music education as specified by AMS regulations.
Maintain accountability for all hiring and staffing decisions to facilitate annual reporting and compliance audits related to Prop 28 expenditures.
Guidance for Non-District Employees and New Applicants
Facilitate the onboarding process for non-district employees and contractors, ensuring they meet the district’s background check and compliance standards.
Provide clear guidelines for new applicants on the credentialing and certification process, making it easier for qualified individuals to join the district’s arts education workforce.
Support for Professional Development
Collaborate with the Teaching and Learning Division to support the professional growth of arts staff through training and development opportunities.
Assist current employees in obtaining additional certifications or skills needed to expand their capacity to teach arts courses or lead arts initiatives.
HR’s Role in Expanding Arts Opportunities for Students
The HR Division ensures that Prop 28 funding is used to bring skilled and passionate arts educators into classrooms, supporting the district’s goal of providing high-quality, equitable arts education for all students. By working collaboratively with other departments and adhering to state and district guidelines, HR:
Helps schools address staffing gaps and build capacity for expanded arts programs.
Ensures students have access to credentialed and highly qualified arts instructors.
Fosters an environment of compliance, transparency, and accountability in staffing decisions related to Prop 28 AMS.
Commitment to Community Stakeholders
HR remains dedicated to serving certificated and classified staff, students, parents, and the broader community by providing the resources, guidance, and support necessary to build a thriving arts education program. Through strategic recruitment, effective credentialing, and ongoing collaboration, the HR Division helps bring the Prop 28 vision to life—enriching students’ lives through creative and innovative arts opportunities.
Legal Services Division: Supprting Prop 28 AMS Implementation
The Legal Services Division of the Sweetwater Union High School District plays an essential role in ensuring that the implementation of the Prop 28 Arts and Music in Schools (AMS) Initiative complies with state regulations, district policies, and collective bargaining agreements. By promoting fair, safe, and equitable working conditions for staff, Legal Services helps create an environment where arts programs can expand and thrive, ultimately benefiting all students.
Through collaboration with other district departments, school sites, and the community, Legal Services is committed to supporting the district’s strategic goals for arts education and fostering a workplace culture that aligns with Prop 28 AMS guidelines and state resources (CDE Prop 28 AMS Resources).
Ensuring Compliance with Collective Bargaining Agreements
Provide legal guidance to ensure that staffing decisions for arts programs adhere to the district’s collective bargaining agreements (Legal Services Collective Bargaining Agreements).
Collaborate with unions and bargaining units to address hiring practices, working conditions, and employment contracts for arts staff funded by Prop 28.
Facilitate negotiations for new or revised agreements as necessary to support the expansion of arts programs.
Workplace Equity and Safety
Ensure that all staff working under Prop 28-funded programs are provided with a safe, equitable, and inclusive work environment.
Address any workplace disputes, grievances, or compliance concerns in a timely and fair manner to maintain harmonious labor relations.
Advise schools and departments on best practices for fostering positive and supportive working conditions for arts staff.
Staffing and Hiring Compliance
Collaborate with Human Resources (HR) to ensure that hiring practices align with district policies, state regulations, and collective bargaining agreements.
Provide legal oversight to confirm that all new hires meet the credentialing, background check, and certification requirements for their roles.
Support HR and Fiscal Services in drafting and reviewing employment agreements, ensuring they align with Prop 28 funding rules.
Fund Allocation and Legal Oversight
Work with Fiscal Services to ensure that Prop 28 funds are used in accordance with the California Department of Education (CDE) guidelines, district policies, and applicable laws.
Provide guidance on permissible uses of funds, including staffing, professional development, and supplies, while ensuring compliance with annual reporting and audit requirements.
Collaborative Support for District Divisions and Schools
Legal Services works in close partnership with:
Fiscal Services: To confirm the legal appropriateness of financial decisions, including contracts and allocations, related to Prop 28.
CCR/VAPA and Teaching and Learning Divisions: To align legal decisions with the district’s strategic vision for arts education and ensure compliance with instructional goals.
School Sites: To assist principals in navigating legal complexities related to staffing, contracts, and workplace conditions as they expand their arts programs.
Supporting Equity and Accessibility
Provide legal support to ensure that all Prop 28-funded programs are accessible to every student, regardless of background or ability, in alignment with district equity initiatives.
Guide schools and departments in addressing any potential legal barriers to expanding arts programs or implementing new initiatives.
Advising on Employment and Contractual Agreements
Assist schools in drafting and reviewing agreements for contracted arts professionals or non-employee service providers.
Ensure that all agreements align with Prop 28 funding guidelines, district policies, and state and federal laws.
Monitor the legal implications of introducing new roles, such as arts coordinators or specialists, funded through Prop 28.
Creating Opportunities for Arts Expansion
The Legal Services Division plays a pivotal role in helping the district achieve its vision of expanding arts education for all students. Through its commitment to compliance, equity, and fair labor practices, Legal Services ensures:
Fair Employment Practices: All staff involved in Prop 28 programs are treated equitably and work under conditions that promote safety, inclusion, and professional growth.
Compliance with Regulations: The district meets all Prop 28 AMS requirements, maintaining transparency and accountability in the use of funds.
Collaborative Solutions: Legal challenges or uncertainties are addressed collaboratively with other departments, fostering an environment of trust and shared purpose.
Engaging Community Stakeholders
Legal Services also recognizes the importance of engaging parents, students, and the broader community in the Prop 28 AMS initiative. By ensuring that all decisions related to staffing and program implementation comply with state regulations and district policies, Legal Services contributes to building public trust and confidence in the district’s commitment to expanding arts education.
Through its ongoing collaboration with Fiscal Services, HR, CCR/VAPA, Teaching and Learning, and school sites, Legal Services plays a vital role in creating sustainable, legally sound frameworks that support the growth of arts programs and provide meaningful opportunities for all students.
Information Technology (IT) Department: Roles, Responsibilities, and Guidance on Prop 28 Implementation
The Information Technology Department plays a vital role in the successful implementation of the Prop 28 Arts and Music in Schools (AMS) Initiative by providing technical infrastructure, tools, and systems to ensure data-driven decision-making and compliance. The IT Department collaborates with other divisions, including Fiscal Services, Human Resources, Legal Services, CCR VAPA, Teaching and Learning, and school sites, to support the expansion of arts programs district-wide.
By delivering accurate and up-to-date reporting on funding activities, the IT Department helps maintain transparency and accountability for Prop 28 funds, ensuring they are utilized effectively and align with compliance requirements set forth by the California Department of Education (CDE).
Key Roles and Responsibilities
Tracking Funding Activities
Staff FTEs: Monitor Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) allocations for arts staff to ensure alignment with the 80% staffing rule under Prop 28.
Courses and Participation: Maintain accurate data on new and existing arts courses, as well as student participation rates, to measure program impact and growth.
Supply Spending: Track expenditures in the 20% supply category to ensure funds are allocated appropriately for equipment, materials, and other needs.
80/20 Rule Compliance
Develop and maintain automated tools to calculate and monitor the 80/20 spending ratio (staffing vs. supplies).
Generate reports that highlight areas where adjustments may be needed to comply with Prop 28 spending requirements.
Data Reporting and Integration
Provide integrated data dashboards for principals, district leaders, and other stakeholders to access real-time information about Prop 28 expenditures and program metrics.
Facilitate data sharing across divisions (Fiscal Services, HR, and CCR VAPA) to streamline budgeting, hiring, and compliance efforts.
Annual Compliance and Reporting
Support the preparation of detailed annual reports required by the CDE, including expenditure tracking, staffing data, and program outcomes.
Ensure that reporting systems are aligned with state requirements and provide clear documentation for audits.
Collaboration and Support
Work closely with Fiscal Services to maintain accurate budget lines and expenditure tracking.
Partner with HR to ensure staffing data, including credentialing and hiring updates, is reflected in IT systems.
Collaborate with Legal Services to ensure reporting systems meet all regulatory and compliance standards.
Provide technical support to school sites for tools and platforms used in managing their Prop 28 allocations.
Guidance for Prop 28 AMS Implementation
The IT Department’s responsibilities extend beyond data management to providing guidance and resources that empower stakeholders:
Develop User-Friendly Tools: Create accessible platforms for school sites to manage their arts budgets and track expenditures.
Train Stakeholders: Offer training for principals, arts coordinators, and other key staff on how to use IT systems to monitor Prop 28 activities effectively.
Ensure Accountability: Deliver detailed reports that ensure transparency and compliance with Prop 28 guidelines, including adherence to the supplement-not-supplant rule.
Enhance Communication: Establish clear communication channels with CCR VAPA, Teaching and Learning, and other divisions to ensure alignment of goals and strategies.
Supporting the Expansion of Arts Programs
By integrating technology into the management and reporting of Prop 28 funds, the IT Department ensures that data is accurate, accessible, and actionable. This enables school sites and district leaders to make informed decisions that expand arts opportunities for all students while maintaining compliance with state requirements. The department's efforts contribute to the overarching goal of building vibrant, sustainable arts and music education programs district-wide.