The Nonpublic Textbook Program provides secular textbooks and computer hardware and software for loan to participating nonpublic schools and provides additional funding to nonpublic schools in which a portion of the student enrollment qualifies for free or reduced-price meals.
The program is the gateway to other MSDE programs for nonpublic schools, such as the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) Scholarship Program, Nonpublic Aging Schools Program (NASP) and Nonpublic School Security Improvement (NSSI) Program.
This funding opportunity is designed for nonpublic schools registered to operate in the state of Maryland. To be eligible to participate, a nonpublic school must complete the online application, and
Hold a certificate of approval from or be registered with the State Board of Education;
Not charge more tuition to a participating student than the statewide average per pupil expenditure, which is calculated by MSDE to be $18,153, with appropriate exceptions for special education students; and
Has incorporated language into its student handbook as required by Annotated Code of Maryland Code, Education Article §26-704(c).
FARMs student enrollment is self-reported by the schools and is based on the results of surveys conducted by the schools. A nonpublic school that does not participate in the FARMs program may use other household income data from an approved data source provided that the income level demonstrates income eligibility.
MSDE does not distribute funds to nonpublic schools. Rather, MSDE orders and pays for the textbooks and computer hardware or software from qualified vendors on behalf of the nonpublic schools. The materials requested must be for loan to students for individual student use, must be secular in character, and must be acceptable for use in any public elementary or secondary school in Maryland.
Participating nonpublic schools place orders electronically through an online portal. MSDE program staff review the schools’ requisitions. If they are approved, then they are converted by MSDE into contracts (purchase orders) with vendors. Materials are drop-shipped by vendors directly to the schools, and the schools affix MSDE property labels to the materials. MSDE makes payments directly to the vendors. Schools must confirm delivery of items.
MSDE will hold several customer service support sessions for interested applicants. During these sessions, MSDE personnel will review what applicants need to get started, the program requirements, as well as a walk-through of the application. To attend a session, click a session link below:
November 10, 2022 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.View the recording from the November 10, 2022 session.
November 16, 2022 from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.View the recording from the November 16, 2022 session.
MSDE will hold several customer service support sessions for participating vendors. During these sessions, MSDE personnel will review ordering and payment processes. To attend a session, click a session link below. See the dates and times below:
Contact:
Sandra GrantProgram Manager, Office of Grants Administration & Compliance(410) 767-0444nptextbook.msde@maryland.gov
Nicole ObregonSpecial Fiscal Programs Administrator, Office of Grants Administration & Compliance(410) 767-2939nptextbook.msde@maryland.gov