Title V Overview

Rural and Low-Income Schools

Grant funds awarded to local educational agencies as a formula grant (not competitive) shall be used for:

  • Title I, Part A (Improving Basic Programs Operated by LEAs)
  • Title II, Part A (Supporting Effective Instruction)
  • Title III, (Language Instruction for Limited English Proficient and Immigrant Students)
  • Title IV, Parts A and B (Student Support and Academic Enrichment)
  • Parental Involvement
Overview of Title V – Rural Education Achievement Program (REAP)
The purpose of Title V is to address the unique needs of rural school districts that frequently lack the personnel and resources needed to compete effectively for federal competitive grants and who receive formula grant allocations in too small amounts to be effective in meeting their intended purposes. 

The grant is non-competitive, and eligibility is determined by statute.
Awards are issued annually to state education agencies (SEAs), which make subgrants to local education agencies (LEAs) that meet eligibility requirements.

Part B of Title V of the ESEA authorizes the REAP.
• There are two programs authorized under REAP:
• The Small Rural School Achievement Program (SRSA) provides funds targeted and designed for schools with small populations in lower-density areas. Funds are given directly to districts with designation by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
• The Rural and Low-Income Schools Program (RLIS) provides funds for states to subgrant to districts with NCES designation. RLIS funds apply more broadly and can be used for a number of purposes related to other titles of ESSA. • The SCDE administers the RLIS.

Title V: Needs Assessment and Application
• A needs assessment must be conducted and must clearly demonstrate a need in the areas in which funds are spent.
• The assessment should include stakeholders, such as teachers, administrators, other school personnel, parents, community members, and even students when feasible.
• The assessment summary narrative should include a discussion of the data indicating the need.
• The online application should be based upon the needs assessment and allocation awarded.
• The guidance from the United States Department of Education (ED) and the SCDE should be followed when developing the plan.

Title V funds may be used only to supplement educational program activities provided with state and local funds.
• LEAs may not use Title V funds to pay for activities that, in the absence of these funds, would be provided with state and local funds.