Title 1 is a federally funded program designed to address the academic needs of students and to assist them in meeting the state's high standards, particularly in the areas of reading, writing, science and mathematics. The Sarasota County School District receives funds based upon the number of students who are eligible for free or reduced-priced meals. Title 1 schools are then determined by the percentage of students at each school who are eligible for free or reduced meals. Atwater Elementary School has been designated a Title 1 school for this school year.

What Does That Mean For Atwater Elementary School?

Our school receives additional resources to help us address the academic needs of our students. In addition to receiving additional instructional positions, our school also receives increased funding for additional instructional materials, professional development for our staff, and parent involvement. This increased funding allows us to provide services such as counseling through CBHC and our Friday Clubs. It also allows us to host our family nights such as the Science Family Night and the Pro Kids Show with Scott Humston.

What Would We Lose If We Were Not A Title 1 School?

If Atwater Elementary School were no longer designated as a Title 1 school, we would lose our additional instructional positions, which currently help us create our Student Support Team (SST). Our SST is responsible for providing supplemental instruction to our students during the school day. This team works with any children who demonstrate a need for additional assistance in a given academic area. In addition to losing the SST, we would no longer be able to provide additional counseling through CBHC or our Friday Clubs. Finally, many of the enrichment programs that we bring to our school (musical performances, theater, character education, etc.) would no longer be present.

How Can I Help Ensure That Atwater Elementary Maintains These Resources?

Since our Title 1 designation is based upon the number of students who receive free or reduced-priced meals, the best way to help Atwater maintain its Title 1 designation is to ensure that you have completed the online application. 

Whom Can I Contact If I Have Additional Questions?

If you have additional questions regarding the Title 1 services at our school, please do not hesitate to contact the office at 941-257-2317 and we will be happy to assist you.