Services to Eligible Private School Children

Under Title I, section 1117 of the ESEA, as amended by the ESSA, school districts are required to provide services for eligible private school students, teachers and their families that are equitable to those of the eligible public school students.

How is funding for instructional services generated for private schools?

A private school student generates funds if he/she resides within an attendance area of a participating Title I public school and meets the established low income criteria.

Who can participate in Title I?

A private school student who can participate in Title I resides within an attendance area of a participating Title I public school and is failing or at risk of failing state student academic achievement standards. Low-income status is not a basis for participation in the Title I Program.

Consultation

LEA officials must conduct a timely and meaningful consultation with appropriate private school officials prior to making any decisions that could prevent eligible private school children, teachers or families from participating in Title I, and must discuss at a minimum the following:

  • How are children’s needs identified?

  • What services will the LEA provide to teachers and families of participating children?

  • How, where and by whom will services be provided?

  • How will the services be evaluated?

  • How will the results of the evaluation be used to improve those services?

  • What is the amount of funds available for services?

  • What data will determine the number of low-income children who attend the private non-profit (PNP) and who reside in a participating Title I school attendance area?

  • What is the complaint process if a private school official does not agree with an aspect or outcome of the consultation?

If a private school elects to participate in Title I Services the consultation must be ongoing throughout the year. The level of involvement is dictated by the size and scope of the services provided by the LEA to eligible private school students. The LEA is considered to be the recipient of the Title I grant. In providing equitable services, the LEA is responsible for maintaining and managing funds. Private schools are not allowed to receive or expend funds.

The following website has a link to the USDE Non-regulatory Guidance as well as a toolkit that can facilitate all aspects of providing services to eligible private school students: US Department of Education Private Schools