The federal government makes available funds specifically to improve the academic achievement of disadvantaged students. The fund 
is known as "Title 1." Title 1 funds are used in Putnam City for many purposes, including paying the salary of reading teachers in high-poverty schools.
One of these talented teachers, Melisa Reeves of Wiley Post Elementary, explains what it means to be a Title 1 Reading teacher, why she feels parent involvement is instrumental in a child's learning to read and what she does to include parents in the education of her kindergarten through 2nd grade students.
Every day a student learns a little more about reading is a successful day. Reading is something that impacts the rest of their lives. When students get closer to independent, fluent reading, I feel successful.
As a Title 1 Reading teacher I work closely with both students and teachers. I teach in small, flexible groups with five to seven students. We work on specific skills, and I try to incorporate a skill with a meaningful piece of literature to tie the lesson together. I challenge myself to make interactive and engaging lessons for my students to show them that reading is fun. In addition, I work with teachers every week to plan lessons and work through difficult challenges. I also help direct teachers to resources that will help enhance their lessons.
Parent involvement is a huge contributor to the academic success of students. When parents work with teachers the students have a huge advantage in the classroom. I encourage parents to be involved by giving them the opportunity to come to school and support their children.
I coordinate Literacy Night where parents and students can read with people in our community, such as military personnel, zookeepers, firefighters, police officers, nurses and, of course, Wiley Post teachers. We also we started Writers’ Club last year. Students are chosen by their teachers to share their piece of writing with other students and parents. We have found this program to be very successful in encouraging students to write and getting parents to come up to the school.
Another way I encourage parent involvement is running a weekly book sale. Students can buy inexpensive books to read at home.
I also run a take-home backpack check out program. Students can check out backpacks to use at home. Along with popular stories, the backpacks also have fun activities.
My favorite part of being a teacher is making an impact on students’ lives. I feel that teaching is one of the most rewarding professions. I feel privileged to have a career that gives me a chance to make a difference every day.
I moved to the Oklahoma City area in the middle of a school year. I asked around about what school district I should apply to. Putnam City kept coming up time and time again. I planned on substitute teaching in Putnam City for the remainder of the school year until I was offered the Title 1 teaching job at Wiley Post. I accepted and have counted my blessings to be at such a great school in a wonderful district.
Children need to have positive experiences while they are at school. School needs to be a fun, engaging and safe place, as well as a place to learn and challenge them. The principals and teachers help set this tone. I am lucky to work in a building that provides students with these opportunities.