Title 1 is a federal funded program which was reauthorized under the Every Student Succeeds Act (P.L. 114-95), better known as ESSA. The law, which was signed into effect on December 10, 2015, amends the Elementary and Secondary Act of 1965 (ESEA), and replaces the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. The act is intended to ensure that states: hold all students to high academic standards, prepare all students for success in college and career, guarantee steps are taken to help students and their schools improve, and promote and invest in local innovation.  Title 1supports state and local school reform efforts by offering improved teaching and learning opportunities to help low-achieving students meet our state’s challenging academic content and performance standards.

Individual public schools with elevated low socio-economic rates may use Title 1 funds to operate a school-wide program that upgrades the instructional program for the whole school.  School-wide programs are based on effective means of improving student achievement and include strategies to support parent and family engagement. Title 1 offers a variety of services for participating schools, which may include: additional teachers and support staff, extra time for instruction, a variety of teaching methods and materials, smaller classes, and additional training and professional development for staff.