What is a Title One teacher?
A Title One teacher is a teacher who is hired using federal funds. Our salaries are paid with federal funds which mean we must show evidence that are school either has a majority of ESL students, our children are at, or below, the poverty line, and/or we have a certain percentage of students who receive free or reduced lunches. Now, not all students who are in Title meet these criteria, many do not. But using our whole student population (and a lot of paperwork) Jefferson Elementary has met this criteria to be considered a Title One School.
What does the Title One teacher do for my child?
When other students are focusing on reading in small groups or working on other items a Title One child is being re-taught the lesson from that morning. This can look like a review of sorts; however, it is a much needed reteaching session where students are given a new way to look at the morning lesson, one that usually fits their specific learning style more individually. Your child is also given one on one instruction on skills they may be struggling with. Your child takes all reading tests with their classroom but they do not turn those assessments in for a grade until we have a chance to review the tests together. This is done in a small group setting where your child is free to ask questions and help is offered on unfamiliar words. These weekly testing sessions give your child a chance to relook at their test, think about the questions one more time and discuss why they may have chosen that answer. This also gives your child a chance to learn the proper way to take tests, such as eliminating the answers they know for sure are incorrect, and to change any answers they see fit. We have noticed over the past few years students who get this extra practice usually score much higher on their assessments than they would have if not given this opportunity.
Is Title One the same as Special Education?
Absolutely NOT! Title One children are usually performing just a bit below their classmates. This can include their overall scores on skill level assessments or even just performing a little bit below their peers socially. Typically, if your child is in a Title One room he or she does not qualify for special education, usually. This merely means your child does not always understand the lessons using direct instruction (teacher led instruction) the first time it is taught. Many Title One students are more visual learners or hands on/minds on learners and they need extended explanation on that day's skill.
How does my child feel about going into the Title One room? Are they embarrassed?
Ask them. Traditionally, the kids are excited. Their peers usually envy them because they get to go “play reading games” while their classmates working on other assignments. On many occasions I have had other students ask me when they get a turn to come into the Title One room. I feel that speaks volume. The attitude Jefferson has about the Title One program is it is not a stigma, it is a privilege!
What is the purpose of my child being in Title One?
Basically, getting them caught up with their peers. Once their skills are matching those of their peers they are left in the classroom all day. As of right now your child will spend apx. 30-45 minutes in the Title One room. Don’t worry, they are not missing any lessons! This is the time of the day when all students in the school are given individual instruction and strategies in which they can improve their own skills.
Thank you for taking the time to read this! If you ever have any questions please feel free to email me at suzanneames@npsne.org