Funding, funding, funding - it can seem like money is often the most popular topic when talking about the arts and arts education and if you want to advocate in Washington, DC or at your local school board it’s important to know when you can make an impact.

There is a reason Washington, DC is such a popular place to visit in the spring and it’s not just the cherry blossoms.  It’s this time of year that Congress begins creating the budget for the following year and people come from all over to make sure their member knows what is important to them.

Advocating for funding in your state becomes a bit more complicated as every state has their own timeline.  However, a similar process is followed in many states with the governors budget being released in January or February and the state legislature acting  much like the U.S. Congress.  In fact many states are so similar that the most popular budget deadline is July 1st.  Each state is different though so be sure to find out about your home state’s timeline since some only pass a budget every two years!

Finally, at the local government level the spring is again the most popular budget timeline.  This is when you can begin to talk to your city council or school board about local projects and arts education spending at your child’s school.  So rest up in the winter, start collecting your facts and scheduling your meetings so you are primed to influence funding in your neighborhood, state and country!