Title I is a federally funded program designed to ensure that all children have an opportunity to access a high quality education. The goal of this federal program is to close the achievement gap for all students.

There are two types of Title I programs: Targeted Assistance School programs (TAS) and Schoolwide Title I programs. Schools are identified and authorized to implement one of these programs based on the percentage of students receiving free and/or reduced meals.

• The Targeted Assistance School program (TAS) allows Title I teachers to provide services to a select group of children. Title I funds may only be used to provide services to children who are identified as having the greatest need for educational assistance.

• The Schoolwide program allows all students to be eligible for additional academic support. Federal funds are used to support and enhance the overall school program. Title I funds may be used to upgrade the entire school’s educational program so that the overall education of ALL children who attend the school can be improved.

Annual Title I school eligibility is determined by the school's average poverty rate as determined by student eligibility for Free/Reduced Lunch. Currently, all Title I schools in the Essex Westford School District operate as Targeted Assistance School (TAS) programs.

Title I schools in the Essex Westford Schools include:

• Summit Street School

• Hiawatha Elementary School

• Thomas Fleming School

• Albert D. Lawton

Eligibility for Title I services in a school is not dependent on the student's poverty rate but is determined based on academic performance and eligibility for intervention services.

• Attend family programs at your child's school.

• Join school committees.

• Provide input for how how schools can use Title I parental involvement funds.

• Offer suggestions to schools for how to increase parental engagement.

• Share responsibilities with teachers for your child’s success.

Title I schools receive funding to provide family and community programs. Examples include:

• Family math or literacy nights.

• Curriculum nights

• Parent education workshops

• Learning materials