Welcome to the Office of Non-Public Education
The roles and activities of the Office of Non-Public Education (ONPE) fall into two major categories: leadership and outreach. ONPE represents the interests, activities and needs of the nonpublic elementary and secondary school community, and also consults with the nonpublic school community on the participation of students and teachers in programs and initiatives at the U.S. Department of Education.
Our Mission
ONPE fosters maximum participation of nonpublic school students and teachers in federal education programs and initiatives. 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.
The ONPE listserv is a free service offered by the Office of Non-Public Education (ONPE).
Frequently Asked Questions - General issues related to nonpublic education.
Information on US Department of Education data collections related to private schools.
Information about equitable services for eligible private schools students, educators, and families under the ESEA.
The Ombudsman Corner provides helpful information and resources to assist ESEA State ombudsmen in fulfilling this role.
Resources related to the equitable services provisions for parentally placed private school students under IDEA.
The following are administered by offices outside of the Office of Non-Public Education within the U.S. Department of Education.
Summaries of selected U.S. Supreme Court rulings related to private and home schools.
Find a private school through our partners at the National Center for Education Statistics.
List of organizations that represent private elementary and secondary schools across the country.
The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes public and private schools based on academic excellence and closing achievement gaps.
The Green Ribbon Schools program recognizes schools for cost-saving, health promoting, and performance-enhancing sustainability practices.
PEAP honors elementary, middle and high school students for their achievement and hard work.
Recognizes and honors some of our nation's most distinguished high school seniors.
Our Locations
Office of Non-Public Education
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Ave. SW
Washington DC 20202
202-401-1365
onpe@ed.gov
