Title I is a federally funded program designed to provide help for students who are performing below grade level in reading and/or math. The goal is to help students succeed in the regular classroom and reach grade level performance by emphasizing high academic standards.

Do all public schools have a Title I program?

Federal guidelines require that Title I programs are available in schools with the greatest level of low-income families. Once a school qualifies, academic need, not economic status, determines which students receive extra instruction. Decisions about particular grade levels to be served are left up to each school site.

What are some typical Title I services?

The district works hard to carry out a program that meets the needs of the children at individual schools. At some buildings this may mean selected students receive assistance during the regular school day either in their classrooms or in another location within the school. Generally, students work individually or in small groups with a teacher or a trained instructional assistant.

Who are Title I students?

They are students who will succeed when given some extra instruction. The students are identified by their classroom teachers as needing additional help in reading and/or math based on their test scores and performance. Those who show the greatest educational need, and who are not receiving Special Education services, are served first.

How are parents involved?

• Parents are notified of their child' s eligibility for and participation in Title I.

• Parents, teachers and students sign a contract that spells out the goals and shared responsibilities of the child, school and parents for student success. *Parents are encouraged to participate in Title I meetings and learning opportunities.

• Parents are provided with information about Title I via newsletters and/or handouts from the Title I staff.

• Parents are invited to be a part of the Title I Parent Advisory Council.

What can parents do?

• Share a love of learning and set a good example by reading, writing letters and/or lists, comparing prices, etc.

• Make learning fun by playing educational games, visiting the library and listening to and talking with your child.

• Show interest in your child' s school day by asking specific questions and praising effort and improvement.