Title I Program in MSAD 15

Title I is a federally funded program designed to help students achieve higher academic standards. In MSAD 15, Title I funds are targeted to provide additional support in economically disadvantaged schools. Title I services are supplemental and are not intended to replace regular classroom instruction.

Students are identified for Title I support through an approved screening process that may include teacher recommendations, classroom interventions, and the Developmental Reading Assessment. Based on this process, students are ranked by need and provided services accordingly. Parents are encouraged to be involved at every step and are provided with strategies to support learning at home.

Parental involvement is a key requirement of Title I. Research shows that parent support at home can improve student achievement, attendance, and classroom behavior, while also empowering parents with tools to support their child’s learning. Ways parents can be involved include:

  • Participating in Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences
  • Volunteering in the school or classroom
  • Attending evening informational meetings
  • Assisting with events such as the Science Fair or other curriculum projects
  • Communicating with teachers via email or phone
  • Requesting additional conferences
  • Attending Open House events

By fostering a strong partnership between home and school, MSAD 15 aims to support the growth and success of all students.

Please share any comments, questions, or suggestions you would like the district to consider as we finalize the ESEA plan for the upcoming school year by completing the following Google Form.

Title I Parent-Teacher Compact

The Title I Parent-Teacher Compact is an agreement that outlines how students, parents, and teachers work together to support student learning and success. It describes the responsibilities of the school, families, and students in creating a partnership that promotes high academic standards, regular communication, and active engagement in learning.

Families and community members can review the current compact below to see how MSAD 15 fosters collaboration between home and school to help every student reach their full potential.

School Improvement Teams

School Improvement Teams (SITs), sometimes called Family Engagement Teams, are collaborative groups of teachers, administrators, parents, and other stakeholders who work together to strengthen teaching and learning within each school. Guided by district and school goals, SITs analyze data, identify priority needs, and develop action steps that support continuous improvement.

These teams focus on areas such as curriculum, instruction, assessment practices, school climate, and family engagement, ensuring that decisions are evidence-based and aligned with MSAD 15’s mission and vision. Their work helps create a safe, caring, and challenging academic environment where all students can learn, grow, and meet high standards.

If you would like to be part of your child’s School Improvement Team, please contact your school principal for more information.

 

Parents’ Right to Know

Under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), parents have the right to know that teachers in schools receiving Title I funds (Memorial and Dunn) meet specific federal requirements. All teachers must demonstrate that they meet the “Highly Qualified” definition under federal law.

At MSAD 15, we believe that a caring, competent, and qualified teacher for every child is the most important factor in student success. We assure you that all of our teachers are fully qualified for their positions:

All MSAD 15 teachers are certified under Maine’s rigorous certification standards.

  • All teachers hold college degrees, with many holding advanced degrees.
  • Teachers continually enhance their skills through ongoing professional development.
  • Teachers are evaluated annually to ensure the highest quality of instruction.
  • We are proud to report that all MSAD 15 Title I teachers meet the federal definition of “Highly Qualified.”

ESSA also allows parents to ask specific questions about their child’s teacher(s), including degrees and certifications held. For more information, please contact your child’s school principal. We value parent engagement and welcome your interest as we work together to support student learning.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Report Cards

MSAD 15 uses assessment data to guide practices at the district, school, classroom, and individual student levels. While we encourage students and families to fully participate in the state assessment program, parents or guardians may opt their child out of state testing. To do so, please contact your child’s principal and submit your request in writing.

Each year, the Maine Department of Education issues report cards for every district and school. These reports summarize student performance on state assessments for Grades 3–8 and 11 and include information about teacher qualifications. State law requires these reports to be made publicly available. The ESSA Dashboard on the Maine Department of Education website allows families and community members to review report cards for schools and districts across the state.

ESSA Dashboard

More Information:

 

Helpful Resources:

 

Updated December 15, 2025