Board approves Title I–IV ESSA grant applications; Title I funds to support eight teachers

The Colonial Heights School Board on May 27 approved separate 2025–26 grant submissions for Title I, Title II, Title III and Title IV federal programs, authorizing continued use of federal funds for staff salaries, professional development, English learner services and transfers to Title I.

Assistant administrators explained the division chose to submit the grants individually rather than as a consolidated application; school leaders said this approach will not change total funding but simplifies approvals. The board approved each application separately by voice or roll‑call votes during the meeting.

School officials described how Title I funds will continue to support salaries and benefits for eight teachers and one paraprofessional across the three elementary schools and the middle school, with reading and math assistance programs supported by those positions. Title II funds were presented as supporting professional development, tuition reimbursement for endorsements and licensure and teacher recruitment and retention activities. Title III funds will be used to expand supplemental language acquisition services, including before‑ and after‑school tutoring and classroom supports and supplies for English learners. Officials said Title IV funds — noted this year as an additional $50,000 — will be transferred into Title I to help cover personnel costs and expand service reach.

Board members asked about federal funding stability. Presenters said they are confident in Title I and Title III funding for the coming year and that Title II status was still uncertain but that coordinators’ feedback suggested approval was likely. The board approved each grant application in separate motions and roll calls.