Lowell operates twenty-one schoolwide program schools.   All elementary and middle schools as well as Lowell High are schoolwide programs with at least a 48% poverty level. Title I schoolwide programs incorporate a wide variety of instructional strategies and models. The majority of Title I teachers work within an in-class model thus minimizing the removal of children from the regular classroom. Teachers use research-based strategies, flexible grouping, and differentiated instruction to address the needs of all students.

A schoolwide program permits a school to use Title I funds along with other federal, state, and local resources to upgrade the entire educational program of the school and raise the academic achievement of all students. Schoolwide programs do not have to rank order or identify students as eligible for services.

Each school identifies individual needs based on an annual needs assessment and on-going evaluation. This data helps schools determine how to most effectively utilize their Title I school allocation. Title I monies are used to fund instructional specialists, teachers, tutors, paraprofessionals, parent liaisons, social workers, and behavior modification center monitors. Funds are also used for professional development activities that include before/after school meetings/workshops, curriculum study groups, hiring of consultants, and attendance at conferences. In addition, funds are used to purchase various instructional materials, provide field trip opportunities for students, provide extended learning opportunities, and support parent involvement activities.

The process for planning schoolwide initiatives incorporates all the elements required of schoolwide programs, educational reform and No Child Left Behind.