Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Logo
Federal Grant Programs

District Level Equitable Services for Private Schools

ESSA Resources

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) contains provisions aimed at making certain forms of assistance available to children attending nonpublic schools. The district and the participating private school then agree on the services that will be provided by the district (funds are never given directly to the private school). Following approval of the ESSA entitlement grant application, the district must provide the agreed-upon services within the current school year.

Outreach to Private Schools

Consultation with Private Schools

Providing Services to Private Schools

Federal Guidance

ESSA Equitable Services Reservation Reports

ESSA Ombudsman

Under ESSA, each state must designate an ombudsman to monitor and ensure ESEA equitable services requirements are carried out under both Title I and Title VIII (comprising Titles II-A, III-A, and Title IV-A&B) of the law.

Ombudsman Contact Information:
Alex Lilley
ESEAequitableservices@mass.gov

Private School Complaint Procedures under ESSA

IDEA Resources

Districts have an obligation to locate and evaluate students with disabilities enrolled by their parents in private schools located within the LEA's boundaries, or those who are home-schooled. Districts must consult with private school or parents to discuss a service plan for students (funds are never provided directly to private schools or parents). Once the annual IDEA entitlement grant application is approved, services must be provided during the current school year, and districts must follow up with private schools/parents two additional times during the year. More information on IDEA equitable services can be found here: IDEA Equitable Services for Students with Disabilities Enrolled by Their Parents in Private Schools.

Outreach and Child Find

Consultation

Providing Services

Federal Guidance

IDEA Equitable Services Reports

DESE Contact for IDEA Equitable Services

If you have any questions or would like to discuss any aspect of IDEA equitable services in greater depth please contact ideafiscal@mass.gov .

Last Updated: December 4, 2024

 
Contact Us

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
135 Santilli Highway, Everett, MA 02149

Voice: (781) 338-3000
TTY: (800) 439-2370

Directions

Disclaimer: A reference in this website to any specific commercial products, processes, or services, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public and does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.