Private School Equitable Services
Private School Equitable Services under ESSA
Under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Equitable Services ensure that students, teachers, and educational staff in private schools—particularly those serving low-income or disadvantaged populations—receive educational benefits comparable to those provided in public schools. These services aim to promote fairness by extending federal resources to eligible private school communities.
Key Elements of Equitable Services
1. Student Residency
- Private school students must reside within the boundaries of a public school district that receives federal funding under ESSA (e.g., Title I, II, III, IV)
- Eligibility is based on where the student lives, not where the private school is located.
2. Nonprofit Status
- The private school must be a nonprofit institution.
- For-profit private schools are not eligible for equitable services.
3. Participation in Consultation
- The Local Educational Agency (LEA) must initiate timely and meaningful consultation with private school officials.
- This consultation determines:
- Student needs
- Types of services to be provided
- How services will be delivered equitably
4. Use of Federal Funds
- A proportionate share of federal funds is calculated based on the number of eligible private school students.
- The LEA retains control of the funds and is responsible for service delivery.
5. Program Areas Covered
Equitable services may be provided under the following ESSA titles:
- Title I – Academic support for low-income students
- Title II – Professional development for teachers and principals
- Title III – Support for English learners and immigrant students
- Title IV – Programs for student health, safety, technology, and enrichment
Additional information is available on the California Department of Education (CDE) website