Understanding Title 1, School Site Council, and ELAC: A Parent’s Guide to School Involvement
At the start of every school year, parents are often asked to join school committees or attend meetings. If you’ve ever asked yourself what Title 1 is in schools or wondered what the School Site Council or ELAC committee does, you’re not alone. These are not just technical terms—they are critical pieces of your child’s school experience.
In this guide, you’ll learn what Title 1 is in schools, how the School Site Council and ELAC are formed, what they do, and why your involvement can make a lasting impact.
What Is Title 1 in Schools?
What is Title 1 in schools? Title I is a federal program that provides extra funding to schools that serve a high percentage of students from low-income families. Its main goal is to help ensure that all children meet challenging academic standards, regardless of their background.
Schools receive Title I funds based on the number of students who qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. Once eligible, schools can use these funds to:
- Hire intervention teachers or instructional aides
- Offer afterschool tutoring programs
- Buy technology and educational software
- Fund parent engagement activities
- Support professional development for teachers
If you’re asking what is Title 1 in schools, it’s important to know that these funds are not automatic. Schools must develop a Title I plan, include parent input, and report on the outcomes.
How Are Title 1 Funds Used?
Schools use Title I money to address specific academic needs. The School Site Council (SSC) plays a vital role in helping determine how those funds are spent. This is why understanding what is Title 1 in schools also means understanding how your voice can influence budget decisions.
Examples include using funds to:
- Purchase classroom supplies
- Develop literacy and math intervention programs
- Provide professional learning for staff
- Host parent education workshops
What Is the School Site Council (SSC)?
The School Site Council is a decision-making body made up of parents, teachers, the principal, and other staff. Its main role is to oversee the School Plan for Student Achievement (SPSA), which outlines how the school will meet academic goals using Title I and other funds.
Parents often ask what is Title 1 and how it impacts their child. The answer lies in part with the SSC. This group reviews data, approves budgets, and helps decide how to improve outcomes for all students.
How Is the SSC Formed?
SSC elections typically take place at the beginning of each school year. Open positions are posted, and parents vote to elect other parents. The council must include a balanced number of parents and school staff members.
Terms usually last one or two years. Training is often provided so that all members understand how the SSC operates and how to analyze school data and budgets effectively.
Why Should Parents Join the SSC?
Parents are often unaware that they have the power to shape how those funds are used. The SSC is your opportunity to help allocate funding, advocate for enrichment programs, and ensure transparency.
Benefits of joining the SSC include:
- Understanding how your school budget works
- Having a say in afterschool programs and tutoring options
- Collaborating directly with teachers and administrators
- Gaining leadership experience
What Is the ELAC Committee?
The English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC) is required at schools with 21 or more English Learner (EL) students. This committee advises the principal and SSC on programs and services for EL students.
Families of English Learners often ask what is Title I in schools and how those funds can help their children. ELAC helps ensure that funds are used equitably and that EL students receive support with language development, academic success, and cultural inclusion.
How Is ELAC Formed?
Like the SSC, ELAC is formed through elections at the start of the school year. Parents of English Learners elect other EL parents to serve. ELAC must have a majority of parents representing English Learners. The committee meets regularly to review progress and make recommendations.
How These Committees Shape School Direction
When you understand Title 1, it becomes clear why SSC and ELAC are so important. These groups guide funding decisions, academic goals, and parent engagement efforts.
They help determine whether to spend money on intervention teachers, art programs, field trips, or technology—all based on school needs and parent input.
How to Get Involved
Ready to take the next step? Here’s how:
- Attend the annual Title I parent meeting
- Ask when SSC and ELAC elections are happening
- Nominate yourself or another parent to serve
- Start attending meetings and sharing your perspective
Your involvement starts with a simple question: What is Title 1? The answer: it’s your opportunity to make a difference.
Conclusion
Now that you know about Title 1, you can see that it’s more than just funding—it’s a doorway to parent involvement, school improvement, and better outcomes for every student.
Whether you choose to run for SSC, join ELAC, or simply attend meetings, your voice matters. Schools need your perspective, your ideas, and your commitment.
Have more questions about Title I, SSC, or ELAC? Leave a comment below or contact your school’s main office to find out how to get involved.
