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Title I and Federal Programs

Federal Programs, Literacy, and Title I

Welcome to the Williamsport Area School District's Federal Program website. WASD receives funds annually in three Department of Education Federal Program Areas.

Below, you will find full descriptions on these programs and services and how they benefit our students.
If you have questions, please contact Director of Federal Programs, Justin Evey or Dr. Megan Hull at (570)893-4900
 

Title I, Title II and Title IV

Title I Program Description 

Title I is a federally funded program under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) designed to provide financial assistance to schools with high numbers or high percentages of children from low-income families. The goal is to ensure that all students—regardless of socioeconomic status—have a fair, equal, and significant opportunity to obtain a high-quality education and reach, at a minimum, proficiency on challenging state academic standards and assessments.

Title I funds are used to support a range of services, including:

  • Supplemental instructional support in reading and math

  • Evidence-based academic interventions

  • Family engagement programs

  • Professional development for educators

  • Extended learning opportunities such as after-school or summer programs

Schools are identified as Targeted Assistance or Schoolwide Title I programs, depending on the percentage of students eligible for free/reduced-price lunch and other qualifying factors.

Title II Program Description:

Title II, Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) provides federal funding to improve the quality and effectiveness of educators. The primary goal is to increase student achievement by elevating the quality of instruction through comprehensive professional learning and leadership development. Title II supports efforts to recruit, train, retain, and support highly qualified teachers, principals, and other school leaders, especially in schools with the greatest needs.

Key Uses of Title II Funds May Include:

  • Professional Development for teachers, instructional coaches, and school leaders focused on:

    • Evidence-based instructional strategies

    • Culturally responsive teaching

    • Classroom management

    • Use of data to drive instruction

    • Literacy and STEM best practices

  • Leadership Development to build the capacity of principals and assistant principals as instructional leaders

  • Mentoring and Induction Programs for new or early-career teachers

  • Recruitment and Retention Strategies for high-need areas (e.g., special education, math, science)

  • Reducing Class Sizes by hiring additional certified teachers

Goal:
Ensure every student has equitable access to effective educators who are well-prepared and supported throughout their careers.

 Title IV Program Description:

Title IV, Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) provides funding to improve students’ academic achievement by increasing the capacity of schools to support the whole child through well-rounded education, safe and healthy learning environments, and effective use of technology.

Title IV funds are flexible and designed to help districts meet local needs in three key areas:

1. Well-Rounded Educational Opportunities

Supports programs that broaden students’ academic experiences beyond core subjects, such as:

  • Music and arts education

  • STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics)

  • Civics, world languages, college and career readiness, AP/IB courses

2. Safe and Healthy Students

Promotes school safety, mental health, and overall well-being through:

  • Social-emotional learning (SEL)

  • School-based mental health services

  • Bullying prevention, trauma-informed practices

  • Drug and violence prevention programs

3. Effective Use of Technology

Enhances digital literacy and personalized learning by:

  • Supporting teacher training in technology integration

  • Expanding access to devices, digital tools, and connectivity

  • Implementing blended or personalized learning environments

Goal:
To ensure that all students—regardless of background—have access to rich learning experiences, safe environments, and modern tools for success in college, career, and life.