Proposition 28 orchestrates a symphony of transformation in education, placing the batons back in the teacher’s hands. From the 2023 school year onwards, $1 billion from the state’s general fund will be allocated to arts education and will usher in a brighter future for K-12 public school students.
Northwood receives about $300,000 in funding from Prop 28, of which 80% will address California’s teacher shortage by hiring teachers and aides, creating about 15,000 new jobs, while the remaining funds go toward art supplies. Prop 28 provides schools with the freedom to decide how these funds will be used and open up access to all types of arts programs.
“The increased funding has both expanded the number of sections that are being offered as well as helped lower class size in some of the disciplines,” art department chair Ben Case said.
Musical theater classes and multiple dance sections have significantly expanded the range of opportunities available to students, offering a diverse range of artistic experiences.
“I enrolled in ceramics because I believed it would offer a fun, stress-relieving, non-academic experience, introducing me to a new skill and hobby,” ceramics student sophomore Lama Ali said.
Moreover, the new range of classes allows returning students to receive more personalized guidance, fostering their growth and development.
“With reduced class sizes, everyone has a better chance to shine and showcase their talents,” dance senior Zoey Tang said. “I am also able to receive more personal attention from the teacher and help address my areas of improvement.”
Northwood’s arts programs continue to flourish and adapt in response to the enduring vision of Prop 28, helping instill a lifelong passion for learning by equipping all students with the resources they need.
“With more money comes more tools and more teachers, which means more prep time for higher-quality lessons,” music student teacher Cole Quizon said. “The arts are ultimately about creativity and developing emotional intelligence, a concept only reinforced by Prop 28.”
With Northwood’s increasing investment in arts teachers, the positive impact goes beyond the classroom, enhancing the school community and fostering stronger emotional bonds among students.
“Students can now pursue multiple interests both inside and beyond the arts simultaneously, ultimately making them more well-rounded,” Case said. “This is what makes Northwood so special—broad access to truly comprehensive experiences that embrace and celebrate the connections between all things and all people.”
