Title 1 Funding Guide: How to Use Funds and How to Plan for Uncertainty
As school leaders look ahead to 2025–2026, Title I remains one of the most significant federal funding sources available to support student achievement. But with ongoing administrative changes and shifting federal priorities, it’s understandable that districts are asking: What should we expect this year?
Here’s what we know now—and how your school can plan with purpose while staying flexible.
How Are Title I Funds Allocated?
Title I, Part A is allocated based on a combination of census poverty data, cost of education in each state, and the number of low-income students in each district. Funding flows through four formulas—Basic, Concentration, Targeted, and Education Finance Incentive Grants.
Once a state receives its Title I allocation, it passes those funds on to districts, with higher-poverty schools receiving more support. Schools with at least 40% low-income students can use Title I funds for schoolwide programs that benefit all students.
When Are Funds Disbursed?
Typically, schools receive preliminary allocations in the spring and finalized amounts in the summer. Funds are accessible at the start of the fiscal year, but actual disbursement timelines can vary slightly based on state processes and DOE guidance.
What Should Schools Expect in 2025–2026?
Federal support for Title I is still strong, and funding amounts for the upcoming year appear stable. However, uncertainties remain around how new DOE leadership and federal-state dynamics could influence how quickly funds are disbursed—or how rigid the rules will be around their use.
Will There Be Any Changes to Funding Amounts?
While current indicators show no major cuts, allocations can shift due to updated census data, district enrollment changes, or evolving federal priorities. Staying up to date with your state’s Title I office is critical.
Will Staffing Changes at DOE Change How or When Funds Are Disbursed?
Leadership changes at the federal level often lead to changes in timelines and administrative oversight, even when core funding programs like Title I stay intact. Districts may experience more red tape or shifting compliance requirements depending on how policy is implemented.
Do Administrative Changes Affect How Funds Can Be Used?
So far, Title I’s broad flexibility remains unchanged. Funds can still support:
- Learning loss recovery
- Remediation and summer learning
- Progress monitoring
- Educational technology
- Tutoring and additional instructional support
A Quick Note on Funding Uncertainty
It’s important to remember that federal education guidance is evolving in real time. While this guide reflects current understanding, policy shifts could impact the specifics around how funds are distributed or used. We recommend staying in close contact with your Title I coordinator for the latest updates.
Progress Learning is an ESSA-aligned, evidence-based program that qualifies for Title I use across all of these areas. Whether your school needs formative assessments, built-in remediation, or individualized study plans, we’re ready to help you put those funds to work.
