Maximizing Title I Funding for Eligible Schools and Districts

How District Leaders Can Sustain Literacy Growth

Improving literacy outcomes while navigating funding challenges can be complex. This checklist provides foundational steps to help district leaders evaluate programs, prioritize evidence-based solutions, and focus on equity to meet the needs of all students. 

Your district’s Title I funds hold enormous potential to improve literacy outcomes, especially for economically disadvantaged students. This practical roadmap can help district leaders carefully evaluate existing programs, strategically allocate Title I resources, and prioritize science of reading-based interventions that promote sustainable, equitable progress. Through actionable steps, you’ll learn how to identify successful initiatives, remove low-impact options, and invest in evidence-based solutions with a proven track record of driving measurable results.

By emphasizing educational equity and narrowing opportunity gaps, districts can deliver high-quality literacy instruction and resources to the students who need them most. With a focus on science of reading elements—including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—this resource ensures that your district can develop robust literacy foundations that truly support long-term success.

With this guide, you’ll gain insights to: 

• Evaluate existing literacy programs to prioritize what’s working and what needs adjustments
• Strategically use Title I funds for impactful, sustainable literacy initiatives
• Redirect resources toward evidence-based programs that address specific needs
• Prompt educational equity by prioritizing underserved student populations
• Transition to science of reading-based solutions proven to enhance literacy outcomes