Orange School District launches Title 1 tutoring program for struggling students

In a recent meeting of the Orange City School District Board of Education, the spotlight shone on the district's Title 1 tutoring program, a vital initiative aimed at supporting students struggling to meet academic standards. Under the warm glow of the meeting room lights, Superintendent and Director of Curriculum Instruction, Shelly Amato, shared insights into the program's development and its promising start.

This year, the district has introduced a new Title 1 tutoring service, funded by federal Title 1 funds designated for students in need. Amato explained that the program offers free tutoring sessions before and after school, as well as virtually, ensuring accessibility for all eligible students. With certified teachers as tutors, the program aims to provide personalized support tailored to each student's needs.

Families have been actively engaged, with an annual Title 1 meeting held to discuss the services available. However, Amato noted that participation has been slower than anticipated, with only about one-seventh of contacted families currently taking advantage of the tutoring opportunities. To boost engagement, the district is exploring more personal outreach methods, including direct communication from teachers to families.

The funding for Title 1 services is determined by the district's free and reduced lunch counts, which can fluctuate yearly. This year, all three school buildings in the district qualify for targeted Title 1 services, allowing them to focus resources on the students who need it most. However, the future of these funds remains uncertain, especially with discussions around potential changes to federal education funding.

As the meeting progressed, board members expressed their appreciation for the hard work involved in implementing the tutoring program. They acknowledged the challenges of managing transportation logistics and ensuring that intervention services are available for all students in need.

In conclusion, the Title 1 tutoring program represents a significant step forward for the Orange City School District, aiming to bridge the gap for students facing academic challenges. As the district continues to refine its approach and engage families, the hope is that more students will benefit from this essential support, paving the way for improved academic success in the years to come.