What is Title I? 

So we have a Title I program... but what does that really mean? 

Title I is a federal program that provides financial assistance to support instructional programs in school divisions and schools with high percentages of low-income students. The purpose of Title I is to ensure that all children have a fair, equal and significant opportunity to obtain a high-quality education. 

What does that mean? Our students receive services and support above and beyond those of a non-Title I school. This is great news for our Champions. At Mary T. Christian, Title I funds pay for extra reading and math support positions, free family events throughout the year, your Family Engagement Specialist, extra books and so much more. With additional staff and the support of families and community partners, we know our students can't help but win!

The MTC Family Engagement Program serves as a connection between home, school and community. My goal is to create a safe space to build relationships and share academic and community resources to help students and families have a successful school experience. 

The HCS Title l Family Engagement program is based on Five Simple Principles for Family Engagement™  by Dr. Steve Constantino

Take a closer look at the principles & how to recognize them at Christian. 

Principle 1: A Culture That Engages Every Family

 We implement Principle 1 by:

1. Welcoming all dynamics of the family unit. 

2. Scheduling events to include day and evening times.

3. Considering every family's needs (food, clothing, academic resources).

4. Sharing information and resources with all.  

5. Creating a safe and comfortable environment for all of our MTC families.  

Principle 2: Communicate Effectively and Develop Relationships

 See Principle 2 in action through:

1. Availability of staff to help as needs arise.

2. An open and nonjudgemental relationship between staff and families.

3. Sharing information in a clear and timely fashion.

4. Active listening and two way communication.

5. Multiple ways to communicate (flyers, phone calls, face to face, website, email, 

       newsletters, Parent/Teacher conferences).

Principle 3:  Build Family Efficacy

  Principle 3 is represented through programs such as: 

1. First Fridays (volunteering) 

2. Lunch Buddies 

3. Friday Book Videos

4. Parenting information sessions

5. Academically focused family events                                                                                                   

Principle 4: Engage Every Family in Decision Making 

Principle 4 is shown by:

1. Hosting forums for families such as "Lunch & Learn" and grade level Zooms 

2. Family Engagement  Action Team 

3. PTA

4. Periodic  surveys  to get feedback and ideas from families

5. Parent representatives on school committees

Principle 5: Engage the Greater Community

Principle 5 is implemented through partnerships with organizations such as:

1. Faith-based organizations

2. Hampton Public Library

3. Military partnerships

4. The Historic Chamberlin and Seton Manor Retirement Community

5. Local businesses, community agencies and organizations