Title I

As the oldest and largest federal education program, Title I programs build equity of opportunity for children whose struggles often keep them on the academic sidelines.

About Title I

Through Title I, the federal government disburses money to school districts based on the number of low-income families in each district as determined by census data. Each district uses its Title I money for extra, supplemental educational services for children who are behind in school.

Title I is based on three important ideas:

1. All students should have a fair, equal and significant opportunity to obtain a high-quality education and to reach, at minimum, proficiency on state academic standards and assessments.
2. Local districts, schools, and parents know best what their students need to succeed. The Title I program allows them to decide how to use these funds to implement research-based proven practices to help students who are failing or who are at risk of failing in school.
3. Parents are partners in helping all students achieve. They have the right to be involved in the design and operation of their school's Title I program, and, at the same time, a responsibility to help their children succeed in school.

Students served by Title I may include migrant children and youth; children and youth with limited English proficiency; children and youth who are homeless; children and youth who have disabilities; children and youth who are neglected, delinquent or at-risk; children in preschool activities; and any child or youth who is in academic need.