GAAME Act of 2026

This bill proposes to clarify that Title I funds, which support students from low-income families, may be used for arts and music education programs in elementary and secondary schools. Schools with school-wide programs would be permitted to include standards-based arts and music instruction taught by certified educators in their comprehensive academic plans. Additionally, schools with targeted assistance programs could use these funds for teacher support, professional development, instruments, and other supplies necessary for arts and music instruction.

This bill affects elementary and secondary students from low-income families who receive support through Title I funds. It also impacts schools operating school-wide or targeted assistance programs, as well as certified arts and music educators and providers. Additionally, the legislation applies to educational entities seeking to utilize federal funds for professional development, instructional supplies, and musical instruments.

• Clarification of Title I funding for arts and music. The bill specifies that Title I funds intended for students from low-income families may be used to support arts and music programs in elementary and secondary schools.
• Integration of arts and music in school-wide program plans. Schools operating school-wide programs may include descriptions in their comprehensive plans regarding how sequential, standards-based arts and music education taught by certified educators meet state academic standards.
• Support for arts and music in targeted assistance programs. Schools with targeted assistance programs are authorized to use funds for arts and music initiatives, including costs for certified educators, professional development, supplies, and instruments.

The bill clarifies and expands the allowable use of Title I funds, which are federal resources designated for the instructional needs of students from low-income families under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. It specifically integrates arts and music education into the planning and implementation requirements for school-wide and targeted assistance programs.

The bill aims to ensure that federal Title I funds for low-income students can be used to support arts and music programs in elementary and secondary schools. It intends to facilitate the integration of standards-based arts and music education into school-wide and targeted assistance programs through support for certified educators, professional development, and necessary instructional supplies.