Title 1 is a federal aid program coordinated through the Department of Education that provides funds to schools. As part of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, Title 1 authorizes the dispersion of federal grants to states. Each state then distributes funds to school districts based on need. Title 1 coordinators make sure these funds are used appropriately to help disadvantaged students achieve academic success.

Levels of Responsibility

Other position Titles for Title 1 coordinators include instructional coordinator and program compliance coordinator. Levels of responsibility vary, with some coordinators addressing the needs of individual schools and others serving at the district or state level. At the highest level, Title 1 coordinators oversee district-wide programs to make sure all schools receiving funds remain in compliance with state and federal requirements.

Students, Teachers and Parents

Title 1 addresses student achievement, teacher development and parent involvement. Title 1 coordinators make sure procedures to monitor student progress are followed correctly. They also coordinate programs to develop or strengthen professional skills in teachers and other staff members. In addition, these coordinators conduct, assist with or oversee parent involvement activities to enhance student learning at home as well as at school and to build greater collaboration between schools and students’ families.

Paperwork and Budgets

Title 1 coordinators also have administrative duties. They review, manage and monitor budgets to keep track of how government funds are spent and what remains in the budget for future spending. Other responsibilities in this area include completing or coordinating the completion of forms, reports and other documentation, including school, district or statewide Title 1 plans. In addition, Title 1 coordinators maintain files and make sure records are secure and available when needed.

Qualifications and Outlook

Most Title 1 coordinators have five or more years of experience teaching at the primary or secondary level and valid licenses to teach in the states in which they’re hired. Most need a master's degree, typically in education or curriculum and instruction. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics categorizes Title 1 coordinators as instructional coordinators and reported a median income of $60,610 as of 2013. Jobs in this field are expected to grow by 13 percent from 2012 to 2022, which is above the average growth rate for all occupations.