Chandler Unified School District secures $18.5M in federal and state education grants

During the recent Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) Governing Board Study Session, a significant focus was placed on the district's funding sources and their impact on educational equity. The meeting highlighted the importance of federal and state grants, which are essential for addressing disparities in education and ensuring that all students have access to quality learning opportunities.

CUSD has successfully secured nearly $18.5 million in grant funding for the current school year, with approximately half of that amount managed by the district's federal programs department. A key component of this funding is Title I, which is designed to support schools with high percentages of low-income students. The district's Title I funding, which has consistently ranged from $4.2 to $4.5 million in recent years, is primarily allocated to instructional and student support services.

The meeting revealed that about 74.8% of Title I funds are directed towards critical services, including hiring math and reading specialists, academic coaches, and instructional aides. These resources are vital for the 11 Title I identified sites within the district, which include nine elementary schools and two junior high schools. Additionally, the funding supports 11 preschool classrooms and summer school programs aimed at enhancing academic achievement for Title I eligible students.

Data presented during the session indicated that students at these federally funded sites are showing promising growth in English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics. For instance, fourth and sixth graders at Title I schools are outperforming expected growth metrics, demonstrating the effectiveness of the interventions and support provided. However, fifth-grade performance remains an area of concern, prompting ongoing efforts to improve outcomes.

The meeting underscored the district's commitment to leveraging grant funding to enhance educational experiences for all students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. As CUSD continues to focus on academic achievement and growth, the positive trends in student proficiency highlight the importance of these funding sources in fostering a more equitable educational landscape.