LES hosts info meeting on Title 1, ESSA
Liberty Elementary School held a community meeting at 3:30 p.m. June 23 in the Elementary School Media Center to address Title I and ESSA (Every Student Succeeds Act) and what it means for the school
The presentation explained that federal funding is provided to Title I schools to provide extra resources to help children meet academic standards. The presentation explained that LES is eligible to become a Title I schoolwide because the community poverty level is 53.74% above 40%.
The goal for LES is to boost math and reading achievement, using small class sizes, Leader in Me for social-emotional learning and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS).
The presentation also explained how using the NYS Next Generation curriculum standards, MTSS offers support at three levels:
- Tier 1: Excellent classroom instruction for all students:
- Tier 2: Students receive small group intervention delivered by either math or reading specialists or other certified teacher to target students’ ‘identified areas of improvement
- Tier 3: Intense, individualized support for a few students
The presentation went over the cycle of success:
- Testing: NWEA MAP Growth test measure progress
- Updates: Regular report cards sent home
- Notices: Parents/guardians will be notified in writing if their child qualifies for extra (Tier 2 or 3) support
The Elementary presentation also emphasized the importance of communication being a two-way street.
The school is committed to staying in touch with families regarding academic and attendance, as letters are sent at 9 and 18 days of absence to offer support.
It also highlighted the modes of communication: phone calls, emails, school apps and letters.
LES also encourages family engagement by practicing the Leader in Me habits at home, joining community engagement nights, and staying informed by reviewing school materials and communicating with any questions.
Parents and guardians can also get by volunteering, joining the Building Leadership Team and helping the school plan on how to use family engagement funds.
The presentation also provided information about rights provided to families under Title 1:
- Request teacher qualifications
- Be notified if a teacher is uncertified for four or more weeks,
- Request regular meetings with staff
- Participate in your child’s education decisions.
For more information, contact Principal Robert England at rengland@libertyk12.org or 845-292-5400, ext. 2503.
