Los Angeles—Former Los Angeles Unified School District superintendent and philanthropist Austin Beutner has taken legal action against the district, alleging that it has failed to use Proposition 28 funds for their intended purpose of expanding arts and music education in schools.
Background on Proposition 28
In the 2022 statewide ballot, California voters approved Proposition 28, earmarking nearly $1 billion each year for arts and music instruction in public schools. The measure requires districts to allocate a substantial portion of the money to hiring additional arts educators and providing classes that would not otherwise be available.
Beutner’s complaint
Beutner, who helped author the measure, argues that LAUSD has redirected the funding to other uses, contrary to the law. “LA Unified may have thought they were above the law and wanted to use the money for something else,” he said in a statement. He asserts that every school is required to use the funds to hire teachers and supply arts classes directly to students.
District’s response
LAUSD maintains that it has complied with Proposition 28’s requirements. The district’s legal team has told the court that the funds have been applied to a variety of arts initiatives across the system, though specific details have not been released.
Student perspectives
Several students voiced disappointment with the current level of arts investment. Sixteen‑year‑old Emma‑Lee Del Hierro said she expected the district to provide art supplies rather than rely on teachers to purchase their own materials or seek community donations. Thirteen‑year‑old Noah Martinez expressed hope for more opportunities as he moves into high school, saying, “I’m definitely looking forward to being in high school and having art as a class.”
Why arts matter
Research cited by Beutner links participation in arts and music education to higher student engagement and improved academic performance. The lawsuit seeks a court order ensuring that the district directs the full amount of Proposition 28 funding toward hiring qualified arts teachers and delivering consistent arts curricula at each school.
Personal motivation
The case carries personal significance for Beutner. In January, his 22‑year‑old daughter Emily, a Loyola Marymount University student, died of a drug overdose. Emily had aspired to become an art teacher, a dream that now fuels Beutner’s advocacy for robust arts programs. He recalled a conversation with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who also lost a daughter, noting, “She said you become a member of a club you don’t want to be a member of.”
Next steps
The lawsuit will proceed in Los Angeles County Superior Court. If the court finds the district in violation, it could order corrective measures and potentially require the district to reallocate funds to meet the statutory obligations of Proposition 28.
Community response
Local parents and community groups have expressed support for the lawsuit, emphasizing the role of arts education in fostering creativity, critical thinking, and cultural appreciation among youth. The outcome may set a precedent for how other California school districts implement Proposition 28 funding.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
