The Galt Joint Union Elementary School District held a meeting on May 25, 2025, to celebrate the achievements of its Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) program during the 2024 school year. This year marked the first implementation of funding from Proposition 28, which aims to enhance arts education in schools.
The meeting highlighted the district's commitment to integrating the arts into student learning. A variety of resources were developed for teachers, including lesson plans and materials, which facilitated meaningful arts integration across all grade levels. Students engaged in diverse activities, exploring art history, music appreciation, dance, and storytelling, among others.
Notable projects included STEM-infused art activities, where first graders transformed owl pellet dissection into nature-based art, and sixth graders collaborated with high school students to create a public service announcement on food waste. The district also provided after-school programs that allowed students to explore various artistic avenues, from guitar to dance.
Field trips to cultural institutions such as the Crocker Art Museum and the Sacramento Children's Museum enriched students' experiences, while live theater performances introduced many to the performing arts for the first time. The district emphasized professional development for teachers, offering workshops and resources to enhance their teaching capabilities.
Key investments were made in campus facilities, including stage lighting and new musical instruments, ensuring that both students and teachers have the necessary tools for success. Looking ahead, the district plans to expand family art nights and integrate arts into school gardens, further enhancing the educational experience.
Overall, the meeting underscored the positive impact of Prop 28 funding, with educators and students expressing enthusiasm for the future of arts education in the Galt Joint Union Elementary School District.