1. The Value Of Using Federal Title IV, Part A: SSAE: Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants for The Arts
With the removal of the term “core” academic subjects from federal law and replacing it with “well-rounded” subjects, new funding streams are now available for more subject areas than before
Music and the arts are now listed as “well-rounded”
This is a sea change for federal education funding
It’s important to take full advantage of this new federal funding stream (a somewhat rare occurrence) for the intended purpose or the funding could be reduced or eliminated

2. Title IV, Part A: SSAE: Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants
Federal Money is to be spent in three areas:
Well-rounded education
Emphasis on Supporting Access
Music and the Arts Fit In This Bucket
Safe and healthy schools
Effective use of technology

3. Title IV, Part A: SSAE: Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants
Pennsylvania’s Every Student Succeeds Act Plan Lists These Priorities for Uses of Federal Funding
1. Ensuring Well-Rounded, Rigorous, and Personalized Learning Experiences for All Students 
a. Increasing Participation in Advanced Coursework for All Students 
b. Promoting Equitable Access to STEM Education
c. Supporting Meaningful College and Career Pathways 

4. Title IV, Part A: SSAE: Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants
The Pennsylvania Department of Education urges districts to utilize funding for the arts and music.
“The Department will support LEAs’ in their efforts to ensure that all students have access to opportunities to participate in the arts and music, and other disciplines that spark joy and creativity, and connect students’ talents and interests with opportunities to serve the needs of their communities. The Department will also continue to work with stakeholders to identify opportunities to meet this goal through the implementation of ESSA.” – PA State ESSA Consolidated Plan

5. Title IV, Part A: SSAE: Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants
By utilizing Title IV, Part Funds for Music and the arts, you are:
Meeting federal recommendation that all students have access to a “well-rounded” education
Meeting state recommendation that all students have access to “well-rounded” subjects including music and the arts which the state specifically calls out
The PA ESSA Plan requires school districts to track chronic absenteeism and college and career readiness. Music and the arts make students want to come to school and provide the skills to provide for college and career. Supporting a strong music and arts program is valuable alone but also helps to meet your state requirements