Private School Equitable Services Resources

The Elementary and Secondary Education Act, as reauthorized under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requires that local education agencies (LEAs) provide equitable educational services and benefits to eligible students enrolled in private elementary and secondary schools.

LEAs are responsible to coordinate timely and meaningful consultation with area private school officials to ensure all non-public schools receive the federal funds to which they are entitled.

Private school administrators and personnel should respond promptly to expedite the approval process and ensure students can benefit from these funds.. As a reminder, the LEA has the ultimate responsibility to manage all federal funds and oversee implementation.

Please reach out to appropriate grant contact if you are experiencing challenges with non-publics in your efforts to correspond, or if there are concerns about agreement, as we may be able to provide additional clarity or technical assistance.

Pursuant to ESEA sections 1117 (a) (3) (B) and 8501 (a) (3) (B), the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) has appointed an Ombudsman to help ensure equitable services and other benefits for eligible private school children, teachers and other educational personnel, and families. In a situation where the LEA and non-public cannot come to an agreement, the Ombudsman is available to assist the LEA and private school in resolving the matter. Together, we can ensure that all students, regardless of the type of school they attend, have access to the high-quality education they deserve.

Contact Information for Consolidated Grant Assistance and Technical Support

LEAs will be expected to first coordinate with their non-public school points of contact. You may also wish to review non-public enrollment data to review area non-public schools that may have participating students.

This data is available in EdSight in the Nonpublic School Enrollment and Staff Counts section.

In many cases, you may be able to find contact information by looking up the non-public school  in the Find Schools section.  

If you require further assistance, please reach out to a member of our team at CSDE.