Title I is a federal program designed to ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have an equal opportunity to succeed in school. It aims to close achievement gaps, particularly in schools with a high percentage of students from low-income families. Schools with a significant number of economically disadvantaged students receive additional funding to support educational programs. This funding is determined using census poverty data and educational costs specific to each state. Title I is part of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), which was updated by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).
Parents’ Right to Know
Parent and Guardian Rights
If your child attends a Title I school, you have the right to know important information about their teacher’s professional qualifications. Federal law requires schools to provide this information upon request. Schools must also communicate your child’s academic progress and notify you if your child is taught by a teacher who does not meet state qualification standards.
Part 1: Parent Right to Know
All districts receiving Title I funds must inform parents of students attending Title I schools that they have the right to request information about the professional qualifications of their child’s teacher(s).
At a minimum, this information must include:
- Whether the teacher meets state licensing requirements for the grade levels and subject areas they teach
- The teacher’s current licensure status
- The teacher’s educational background (college major, degrees earned, and certifications)
If your child receives instructional support from a paraprofessional, you also have the right to know that individual’s qualifications.
Part 2: Notification of Teacher Qualifications
Parents must be notified if their child is assigned to, or taught for four or more consecutive weeks by, a teacher who does not meet the definition of “highly qualified.”
If a substitute teacher in a Title I school teaches in a classroom for four or more consecutive weeks and does not meet “highly qualified” criteria, the school is also required to notify parents of this situation.
Resources:
Board Policy 505.8: Parent & Family Engagement
Title I Compact for Reading
Contact Us:
Mel Hewitt, Principal
Anderson Elementary
Email: hewittm@bfschools.org
Phone: 515-967-7494
