The Office of Non-Public Education is the liaison office to the nonpublic school community, including private, independent, faith-based, and home schools, for the U.S. Department of Education.
Since the initial passage of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) in 1965, private school students and teachers have been eligible to participate in certain federal education programs. ONPE's activities reflect this mission and direction by:
- Representing the U.S. Department of Education to the nonpublic school community;
- Offering advice and guidance within the Department on all matters affecting nonpublic education;
- Communicating with national, state and local education agencies and associations on nonpublic education topics;
- Communicating the interests and concerns of the nonpublic school community to the Department;
- Providing parents with information regarding education options for their children; and
- Providing technical assistance, workshops and publications.
- Join Our Listserv
- Frequently Asked Questions – General Issues Related to Nonpublic Schools (August 2019) [PDF, 710KB]
- Federal Education Laws and Programs Affecting Nonpublic Education
- Non-Public Education Organizations
- Non-Public Education Statistics
- Other Department of Education Programs and Resources
- Search for Private Schools
- Selected U.S. Supreme Court Rulings Related to Private and Home Schools
Contact ONPE
Office of Non-Public Education
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Ave. SW
Washington, DC 20202
202-401-1365
onpe@ed.gov