Degree Name

Education Specialist (EdS)

Semester of Degree Completion

1997

Thesis Director

David E. Bartz

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze and compare Title I programs in small, rural school districts in Central Illinois. The reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, referred to as the Improving America's Schools Act of 1994, has been a significant factor in redesigning Title I programs. The new trend in Title I programming focuses on accountability for maximum student achievement rather than the traditional issues concerning fiscal record keeping and detailed documentation that money was used to supplement, rather than supplant, existing programs. The coordination of funding sources and programs is encouraged by the reauthorization to maximize resources available to schools.

A survey instrument was used to gather information. It was found that all elementary schools in the area surveyed have Title I programs. Elementary students had a higher eligibility for free and reduced lunches than high school students. Since eligibility for free and reduced lunches generates the amount of Title I funding, elementary grades were served more often than high school grades. Further, results of this study found that the most desirable means of providing Title I instruction was through inclusion methods of programming and computer aided instruction.

Overall, the survey results indicated that Title I programs are becoming more effective due to flexibility in Title I regulations and innovative programming.

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