# The GAAME Act of 2023: Getting Arts and Music Back Into Schools

This bill aims to make sure that arts and music education become a standard part of what schools teach, not just optional extras for students who have time or money. Right now, many schools—especially those serving lower-income communities—have cut back on arts and music programs to focus on math and reading. This bill changes that by requiring schools that receive federal funding to include sequential, standards-based arts and music education as part of their core curriculum, taught by teachers who are certified to teach these subjects.

The bill specifically targets two types of schools. First, it applies to schools that are trying to improve overall student achievement and need to provide a well-rounded education. These schools would now need to offer arts programs (including dance, theater, visual arts, and media arts) and music programs as part of their improvement plans. Second, it applies to schools that are struggling and receiving extra federal help to turn things around. These schools would also be required to provide arts and music instruction, along with funding to hire certified teachers, pay for professional development, buy instruments and supplies, and cover other costs associated with these programs.

The practical effect is that students in struggling schools would have guaranteed access to arts and music education, not just in theory but with actual funding to make it happen. Schools would need to hire qualified teachers and provide the materials they need to teach effectively. This could mean more jobs for arts and music educators and more opportunities for students to develop creativity and skills that research shows help with overall academic performance and student engagement.

GAAME Act of 2023

Velázquez, Nydia M.

Guarantee Access to Arts and Music Education Act of 2023 or the GAAME Act of 2023 This bill specifies that funds that support the instructional needs of elementary and secondary students from low-income families (i.e., Title I funds) may be used for arts and music programs. First, the bill specifies that schools operating school-wide programs may include descriptions related to arts and music education in their comprehensive plans. Such a plan may include a description of (1) how sequential, standards-based arts education taught by certified educators and providers meet the challenging state academic standards, and (2) how sequential, standards-based music education taught by certified educators align with the challenging state academic standards. Second, the bill specifies that schools operating targeted assistance programs may use funds for arts and music programs that address the academic needs of students. This assistance may include providing support for certified educators, professional development, supplies, instruments, and other expenses.