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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    Students with disabilities who are publicly placed in a nonpublic school

    If LEAs elect to utilize another public or private agency, organization, or school to provide all or part of the special education program on their behalf, under Title 22 of the Pennsylvania School Code §§ 14.102 and 711.2, they remain responsible for the provision of FAPE consistent with IDEA and Pennsylvania special education regulations contained in Chapter 14 and Chapter 711. The special education programs or services provided through arrangement with a public or private agency or organization must be implemented in accordance with the child’s IEP and consistent with the requirements of IDEA and Chapter 14 or Chapter 711. LEAs remain responsible for ensuring the implementation of the special education programs or services that are provided by the private or public agency, organization, or school meets the requirements of IDEA and Chapter 14 or Chapter 711.

    Read more about this type of special education placement in the Placement Options for Special Education BEC.

    Approved Private Schools and the Chartered Schools for the Deaf and Blind

    Approved Private Schools (APSs) and the Chartered Schools for the Deaf and Blind are schools approved by the Secretary of Education to provide a free and appropriate special education for students with severe disabilities.  The schools are eligible to receive funds from the school districts and/or the Commonwealth for the education of these students. Pennsylvania currently has four PA chartered and 33 non-charter APSs for which the Department approves funding.

    Learn more about Approved Private Schools, and see a list of schools.

    Students with disabilities who are placed by their parents in a nonpublic school

    Read the following Special Education Services to Nonpublic School Students BEC to learn about what is owed, under special education law, to students with disabilities who are offered FAPE in a public school but who are enrolled by their parents in private, nonpublic schools.

    Learn more about Equitable Participation Services.