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The state is one step closer towards changing the rules on music and art teachers along with other specialty positions.But it could still be months before the plan is finalized.Right now for every one thousand elementary students, schools must have at least five of these positions: art, phys ed, and music teachers, counselors, nurses, librarians, social workers, and visiting teachers.The state school board has voted to change that rule. Instead of a mandate—local districts would get to decide how many of those positions they need based on what the community values. That’s according to Board member Ron Rudduck, who’s confident districts will keep the arts in the classroom.“I’m familiar with a lot of people a lot of superintendents throughout the state and I just think districts are going to do what’s right for kids,” Rudduck said.Several board members and teacher groups adamantly oppose the change—believing this opens the door for districts to cut specialty positions.The proposal now goes through the state’s official rule review process. The board may not get a final vote until next spring.