Wisconsin · Federal Formula

Title I: Improving Basic Programs

Eligibility

All Wisconsin public school districts that meet federal poverty concentration thresholds. Funds flow to Title I schools within qualifying districts. Districts with higher concentrations of low-income students receive larger allocations.

Program Goals

Title I, Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA/ESSA) provides federal formula funds to improve instruction in high-poverty schools. Wisconsin districts use Title I funds for academic support, curriculum, technology, professional development, and family engagement — all in service of improving outcomes for low-income students.

Learn more at https://www2.ed.gov/programs/titleiparta/index.html

Application

No competitive application required. WI DPI distributes Title I formula allocations to districts based on census poverty data and free/reduced lunch enrollment. Districts submit a consolidated grant application to DPI describing planned uses. Contact your district Title I coordinator for your allocation.

Cycle Notes

Annual federal allocation cycle. Wisconsin DPI finalizes district allocations in spring. Districts must obligate funds by September 30 of the following year.

Award Amount

Formula-based. Wisconsin receives approximately $200M+ annually in Title I funds, distributed across qualifying districts. Individual district amounts range from small amounts for rural districts to millions for large urban districts (Milwaukee, Madison).

Allowable Purchases

Forward Education products that qualify for this grant:

• Coding for Good Kit — Supports academic enrichment and digital equity goals in Title I schools — hands-on CS education for students who need expanded opportunities.
• Climate Action Kit — Project-based STEM learning that improves student engagement and academic outcomes in high-poverty schools.
• Forward Education Learning Platform — Digital curriculum platform that provides equitable access to high-quality CS and STEM instruction across Title I classrooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every Wisconsin school district receive Title I funds?
No. Only districts that meet federal poverty concentration thresholds receive allocations. Within qualifying districts, specific schools are identified as Title I schools based on poverty data.

What can Title I funds be used for?
Academic support, curriculum, technology, professional development, and family engagement — all must be tied to improving academic outcomes for low-income students.

Can Title I funds be used for curriculum kits or educational technology?
Yes. Curriculum materials and educational technology that support academic improvement are allowable uses under Title I.

How does a teacher access Title I funds for classroom materials?
Work with your school's Title I coordinator or principal. Title I purchases typically go through the school or district purchasing process.

Can Title I funds be combined with other grants?
Yes. Title I funds can be coordinated with state and local funds. Some federal grant programs require that Title I supplements rather than supplants other funding.