Statewide Proposition 320 would require certain public school districts, including Amphitheater, to spend at least 60% of their operational budgets on direct instructional expenses. Charter schools would not be subject to the requirement, and no additional funding would be provided.
According to the Arizona Auditor General, Amphi spent 66.5% of its budget on classroom spending in 2025, but only 49.9% was classified as instruction. The difference is important because many services that support students are not included in the definition of instruction.
What counts as instruction? Teacher salaries, classroom aides, substitutes, textbooks, classroom materials and some expenses for athletics, field trips and special programs.
What doesn't count? Counselors, psychologists, nurses, therapists, social workers, school resource officers, transportation, food services, building maintenance, instructional coaches, librarians, technology services and administrative expenses.
What would it mean for Amphi? If Proposition 320 passes, the District would be required to increase spending classified as instruction by at least 0.5 percentage points annually until reaching 60%. Districts that fail to meet the requirements could face reductions in state funding that supports teachers and students.
