Federal Programs

Title I is the largest federal funding source to local educational agencies under ESEA.  It is designed to ensure that all children have a fair, equal, and significant opportunity to obtain a high-quality education and reach, at a minimum, proficiency on challenging state academic standards and state academic assessments.  Title I funds are provided to schools with large numbers of economically-disadvantaged students.  Based on the needs of their student subgroups, Title I schools design instructional programs and provide student services to supplement existing programs that are financed through local, state, and other federal funds.  Services may include implementing effective instructional practices, hiring additional teachers to reduce class size, purchasing materials and supplies, and hiring additional teacher assistants or other personnel.

 

Title III is a federal program designed to support students who are learning English. Its primary aim is to help English learners (ELs) become fluent in the language and succeed academically. The program provides extra assistance for students to improve their English skills, offering special programs that teach English alongside regular school subjects. Additionally, Title III supports families of English learners through services like translation and English classes.

In schools, teachers receive specialized training to better assist English learners, and schools may offer after-school or summer programs for additional practice. The program also allows for the purchase of new technology and educational materials to enhance English instruction. Family involvement is a key component, with schools often organizing activities that help families support their children's learning and providing information about student progress in a language they understand. It’s important to note that Title III services are supplemental, meaning they are provided in addition to regular school programs rather than as a replacement. Both public and private school students can benefit from these services.

 

Title IV, Part A of the ESEA is the Student Support and Academic Enrichment (SSAE) program.  The SSAE program is intended to improve student's academic achievement by increasing the capacity of the district to provide all students with access to a well-rounded education; improve school conditions for student learning, and improve the use of technology to improve academic achievement and digital literacy of all students.