Understanding ATSI Funding: What It Is and How Schools Can Access It 

Across the United States, educators are always looking for ways to better support students, especially those facing significant learning challenges. One important resource available to help address these needs is ATSI funding. But what exactly is ATSI funding, and how can schools access it? Let’s dive into what ATSI funding is, who it benefits, and how districts can leverage it to improve educational outcomes. 

What Is ATSI Funding? 

ATSI stands for Additional Targeted Support and Improvement. It is a category of funding that targets schools identified as needing additional resources to improve student performance, particularly for specific subgroups of students who are falling behind academically. ATSI funding is part of the broader efforts under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which aims to ensure that all students, regardless of background or ability, have access to a quality education. 

The primary goal of ATSI funding is to provide additional support to schools that serve students from historically underserved groups. These schools are generally facing academic challenges, and the funding is designed to help bridge those gaps. 

Who Benefits from ATSI Funding? 

ATSI funding is typically allocated to schools that fall under the Additional Targeted Support and Improvement designation. Schools that receive this designation have a significant number of students in one or more of the following categories: 

• Students with Disabilities (SWD) – Schools with a high number of students with disabilities who may need extra support to meet academic standards. 

• English Language Learners (ELL) – Schools with a significant population of students who are learning English as a second language. 

• Economically Disadvantaged Students – Schools that serve a high percentage of students from low-income households. 

ATSI funding is designed to help these schools implement strategies, programs, and interventions to ensure that these students have the resources they need to succeed academically. By targeting these specific groups, ATSI funding aims to close the achievement gap and ensure that all students have equitable opportunities to learn. 

How Can Schools Access ATSI Funding? 

1.  Understand the Eligibility Criteria
   The first step in accessing ATSI funding is understanding whether your school or district qualifies. In most cases, ATSI funding is designated to schools that have been identified as needing additional support under the ESSA guidelines. States and districts receive federal funds and then distribute those funds to schools based on factors such as student performance, achievement gaps, and the percentage of students in the identified subgroups.

    

   Each state has its own criteria for how ATSI schools are designated, so it’s important to consult with your state’s Department of Education to determine which schools qualify for ATSI funding in your area. States typically provide a list of ATSI-identified schools on their official websites, and these schools are often listed by their funding categories (e.g., SWD, ELL, or economically disadvantaged). 

    

2. Leverage the Flexibility of ATSI Funds One of the key benefits of ATSI funding is its flexibility. Schools don’t need to allocate the funds for a specific item or program. Instead, they can use the funding to purchase a variety of resources that can help meet the academic needs of their students. These resources might include:
   – Targeted intervention programs that help struggling students catch up.
   – Professional development for teachers to better serve diverse learners.
   – Supplemental educational materials that align with the needs of the student population.
   
   This flexibility allows schools to select programs and resources that fit their specific needs and goals for student improvement.

    

3. Focus on Evidence-Based Programs
   When applying for ATSI funding, it’s essential to consider evidence-based programs that have been shown to make a measurable impact on student achievement. Schools should aim to invest in programs or resources that are not only a good fit for their students but also have a proven track record of success.
   
   Programs like TouchMath, for example, are hands-on, research-backed solutions that help students build math confidence and close learning gaps, especially for students who need the most support.

    

4. Work with District and School Leaders
   Once a school has been identified as eligible for ATSI funding, the next step is for school and district leaders to collaborate and identify which resources will be most beneficial for their students. Districts often have designated coordinators or specialists who oversee the use of ATSI funding and help ensure that the funds are being used effectively. Reaching out to these coordinators is a great way to understand how the funds can be allocated and what programs may be eligible for funding.

    

   The process typically involves working with these coordinators to submit a plan outlining how the ATSI funds will be used to address the needs of targeted student populations. Schools must be transparent about the specific programs or resources they plan to invest in and demonstrate how those choices align with the goals of improving student outcomes. 

    

5. Track and Measure the Impact
   Once funds are allocated and programs are implemented, it’s important to track the progress and measure the impact of those interventions. This is often a requirement for schools receiving ATSI funding, as the funding is intended to make a measurable difference in student achievement. Schools should collect data on student performance, engagement, and other relevant metrics to assess whether the resources and strategies funded by ATSI are working as intended.

    

   If a program or resource is not showing the desired results, schools may need to adjust their approach or consider alternative solutions to best support their students. 
   
   

When Is ATSI Funding Available? 

ATSI funding is typically released early in the year, often in February or March, and districts must allocate and spend the funds by the end of the fiscal year, which is typically September. Because of this timeline, it’s important for schools to act quickly and efficiently when determining how to use their ATSI funding. Proactive planning is key to ensuring that the funds are used effectively and that students get the support they need as soon as possible. 

ATSI funding offers a valuable opportunity for schools and districts to support students who need it most—whether they are struggling due to disabilities, language barriers, or economic challenges. By understanding how to access and use ATSI funding, schools can invest in targeted resources that will make a real difference in student achievement. 

For schools looking to close learning gaps, particularly in subjects like math, the flexibility of ATSI funding makes it possible to implement programs and resources that can provide measurable results. Whether your district is already receiving ATSI funding or is in the process of applying, it’s essential to identify effective, evidence-based solutions that will support the diverse needs of your students. 

If you’re unsure where to start or need guidance on selecting programs or resources, it’s a good idea to consult with district coordinators and specialists who manage ATSI funding. They can help you navigate the process and ensure that your students receive the support they need to thrive academically. 

Using ATSI Funding for TouchMath  

You can use ATSI Funding for the entirety of the TouchMath program including curriculum, manipulatives, and professional development.  

TouchMath is an innovative, multisensory math program that uses a hands-on approach to teach essential mathematical concepts. By combining auditory, visual, and tactile elements, TouchMath enhances understanding for students who may struggle with traditional methods of instruction. This approach is particularly effective for students with learning disabilities, dyscalculia, or those who require additional support to grasp foundational math concepts.  

Learn more about how to use TouchMath in different learning environments here.