Getting Started with ESEA/ESSA Title Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
By TJ Chipres, M.Ed., Federal Programs Manager, Archangel Education & Technology
1. What Federal guidance specifies that non-profit private schools qualify for ESEA/ESSA title grants?
2. What is an “eligible private school”?
To be eligible for Title grants, the private school must:
a. Be non-profit
b. Be accredited, licensed, or otherwise operated in accordance with State law
3. How can my school participate in ESEA Title grants?
Non-profit private schools must contact their Local Educational Authority (LEA) to receive ESEA equitable services. Your school must inform the LEA of your Intent to
Participate (see the sample form below usually sent out annually by the LEA). Planning for each new school year begins in spring. At that time, meaningful consultations between the LEA and the private school are scheduled as required under ESEA.
4. What is a “meaningful consultation”?
ESEA Title VIII requires each LEA to have timely, open discussions with participating schools to ensure a positive and productive process that meets the needs of both the LEA and the school. Meaningful consultation occurs throughout the implementation, assessment, procurement, and distribution cycle.
From: https://www.ed.gov/sites/ed/files/about/inits/ed/non-public-education/files/essa-webinar-041624.pdf
5. What are “equitable services”?
According to ESEA Title VIII, each Local Educational Agency (LEA) must handle all purchases and contracts for their assigned district or area. The LEA must ensure that
eligible private school students, teachers, and other educational personnel receive benefits comparable to those in public schools. Products and services selected by the
school are purchased at the LEA level and then distributed to the school. No federal money flows to the school. An excellent Department of Education slideshow on equitable services can be found here.
6. How do I find my LEA?
The GreatSchools.com website can help you locate your LEA. Your LEA is the school district office in your school’s geographic area. Enter your school’s address in the search bar. The school district name will appear in a blue hyperlink on the top left side of the page.
7. Once I locate my LEA, what do I ask for?
Tell your LEA that you are an accredited private, non-profit school operating in accordance with your state laws. Ask them how you can receive equitable services under ESEA. Tell them you are interested in participating in the following programs:
a. Title I (Improving Basic Programs Operated by LEAs) – if at least 40% of your student population is at the low-income level
b. Title IIA (professional development)
c. Title III (English Language Acquisition, Language Enhancement, and Academic Achievement) for your students who need assistance learning English to ensure their academic success. (NOTE: LEAs may differ in how they identify these students.)
d. Title IV (student support and academic enrichment)
8. What do I do if my local LEA denies my request for equitable services?
Each state designates an ombudsman to ensure equitable services and other benefits for eligible private schools. You can find your state’s ombudsman on the Ombudsman Directory at the bottom of the Department of Education Ombudsman page. Don’t hesitate to reach out to ISLA for additional support.
9. When does the cycle begin?
The process of planning for each school year begins in March or April with the first Meaningful Consultation. If you wish to participate for 2025-2026, now is the time to contact your LEA.
10. Where can I find more information?
The U.S. Department of Education Office of Non Public Schools (ONPE) webpage provides many resources that can help guide you in accessing and using equitable
services. Additionally, a recent ONPE slideshow provides great detail on eligibility, equitable services, meaningful consultations, the pooling of funds, and monitoring and enforcement.
Information provided by TJ Chipres, M.Ed., Federal Programs Manager – Archangel Education & Technology
1.786.279.8426 EXT. 1005
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N. Miami Beach, FL 33162
