Supporting students’ literacy journeys often means securing essential resources, and Title I funds are a powerful tool to help schools make this happen. But what is Title I, and how does it open doors for literacy programs?
Title I is a federal initiative aimed at leveling the educational playing field by providing financial support to schools with high percentages of students from low-income families. This funding is critical in helping nearly half of U.S. public schools ensure all students receive a high-quality education, regardless of their economic backgrounds.
Beanstack aligns closely with Title I goals by fostering literacy and student achievement. Schools can use Title I funds to bring Beanstack into their classrooms and libraries, creating reading programs that engage and inspire students, track their growth, encourage them to keep reading and help them succeed.
Understanding Title I Funds
Government funding can be complex, so let’s break it down to the essentials.
What Are Title I Funds?
Title I was initially developed to help close the achievement gap for students from low-income families. The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) was signed into law in 1965 and then reauthorized by President Obama in 2015 with the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). The ESSA provides funds like Title I to local education agencies (LEAs).
Title I funds aim to ensure all students have equitable access to quality education by allocating federal funds to schools and other education agencies. More than 49,000 schools are currently receiving Title I funds.
Who Qualifies for Title I Funds?
Schools are eligible for Title I funds if at least 40% of their students are from low-income families. The school's funding is determined by several factors, including the percentage of qualifying students, the total number of students, and the community's specific needs.
In schools where less than 40% of the student body is low-income, students may still qualify for Title I targeted assistance. In these cases, the school uses Title I funds to support eligible students rather than a schoolwide program.
Common Uses of Title I Funds in Schools
Title I-funded programs help students meet state standards in academic subjects like reading, language arts, and math. The specific use of funds can vary significantly from school to school.
There are many ways to support student achievement in addition to the school curriculum. Some of these uses may include:
- After-school and summer programs
- Reading programs and literacy interventions
- Family engagement and involvement opportunities
- Professional development for teachers
- Additional supplies and updated technology
The Role of Literacy in Title I Programs
Although Title I funds cover a range of academic subjects, reading and literacy carry a unique significance.
Why Literacy is a Key Focus of Title I
There is a direct connection between literacy and long-term academic success, regardless of the subject. Reading skills impact other core subjects like math, science, and social studies.
By supporting students in literacy, educators help them build a strong foundation that will extend far beyond the classroom. Encouraging a positive relationship with reading means setting children up for academic achievement, which supports self-confidence. Thus, children are set up for success in every aspect of their education.
How Schools Prioritize Title I Reading Programs
Schools may implement reading programs differently based on their students' learning needs and interests. Title I funds can help to make successful literacy initiatives possible.
One example is the Early Literacy Initiative Grant. This was designed to assist Title I schools in implementing an evidence-based literacy program that helped students meet literacy proficiency targets. An average of 91% of students who attended the program met their literacy goal.
Reading programs supported with Title I funds can take on many different forms. Beanstack provides many tools and resources that make reading programs fun and effective.
How Beanstack Aligns With Title I Goals
Continuous reading engagement fosters a sustainable reading culture, helping students succeed in the classroom and throughout life. Beanstack supports Title I's broader goal of equipping all students with equitable access to quality education so they can thrive.
Features like free-choice reading allow learners of all levels and abilities to participate, leading to improved reading comprehension for diverse learners. From improving academic outcomes to empowering educators and families, Beanstack supports the long-term success of a positive relationship with reading.
Builds a Culture of Reading for All Students
Fostering a life-long love of reading is key to academic achievement and success outside the classroom. Developing a positive relationship with reading equips students with essential skills, such as critical thinking, empathy, and perseverance, to help them thrive academically and personally. This foundation encourages lifelong learning, boosts confidence, and fosters a love for knowledge and exploration.
Beanstack's customizable reading challenges encourage students to read more, especially in Title I schools. By participating in group reading challenges, students engage in friendly competition and work together toward a common goal.
Reading in all forms counts toward the goal, whether it's graphic novels, magazines, audiobooks, or traditional books. This allows students to follow their interests without being restricted by levels or points. This inclusive approach makes reading challenges accessible for students with diverse learning needs and empowers them to explore exciting topics. Beanstack has been proven to engage reluctant readers and improve reading outcomes.
Tracks Progress With Data-Driven Insights
Receiving Title I funds for reading programs means assessing student needs and ensuring your school meets the requirements.
Beanstack’s logging and reporting tools help educators monitor progress and adjust strategies to support struggling readers. Teachers can use Lexile Insights to get an in-depth understanding of their students’ reading behaviors and needs. Beanstack’s comprehensive data collection methods support Title I reporting and accountability requirements.
Engages Families in the Reading Journey
Reading habits and comprehension develop more effectively when encouraged at home and school. Beanstack’s mobile app empowers families to participate in literacy efforts, supporting reading at home and during family literacy nights.
The app is easy to use and helps parents track their child’s progress anytime. This means after school, between activities, on the weekends, or whenever works best for their schedule. Turning reading into a family effort extends the Title I academic achievement goal beyond the school day.
Expands Literacy Through Community Partnerships
Beanstack encourages collaboration between schools and public libraries to maximize reading resources and access, especially for students from underserved communities. Expanding your reading community supports readers of all ages and levels and shows students the far-reaching impact that literacy can have.
Beanstack supports community-wide reading challenges that align with Title I’s focus on community and family engagement. For schools looking to grow a culture of reading, these challenges boost enthusiasm for literacy and increase participation in family literacy events. Local businesses can also get involved by sponsoring prizes or helping to promote school reading challenges, creating a powerful community network that supports students and families in their reading journey.
Optimizing Title I Funding with Beanstack
Title I funds are vital to improving student achievement and closing the literacy gap. Beanstack provides a strategic solution that aligns with Title I objectives—helping schools foster a love for reading, track progress, engage families, and build partnerships with libraries.
Explore how Beanstack can enhance your Title I literacy program and maximize its impact on funding. Schedule a demo or request a quote for Beanstack to build an effective and impactful reading program at your school today.