Title I is a federal aid program for schools. The goal of Title 1 is to ensure a high-quality education for every child, by providing extra help to students who need it most. Title I has three primary objectives:

• to improve student achievement for all participating children
• to improve staff development
• to improve parental and community involvement

Title 1 funds are distributed to districts and individual school based on the number of low-income families served. However, once a school qualifies for Title 1 funds, academic need, not economic status, determines which students receive extra services. Title 1 funds are intended to supplement (add to), not replace, state and federal funds.

Title 1 is different from Special Education programs. Title 1 does not address student needs based on disability or special needs, but rather on the basis of student performance, achievement and progress. To read a parent tip sheet describing Title 1, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, go to Title 1, IDEA and 504.

For more information on Title 1:  Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education or U.S. Department of Education