Nonpublic School Approval

The Nonpublic School Approval Branch is responsible for the regulatory oversight of nonpublic schools located throughout Maryland. These schools fall into three distinct categories; nonpublic schools approved under COMAR 13A.09.09 (private pay), nonpublic schools approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 (publicly funded), and registered church-exempt schools. The first two types of schools are considered “approved” because they hold a Certificate of Approval issued by the Maryland State Board of Education. Registered church-exempt schools are exempt from the education regulations set forth by the Maryland State Board of Education because they are governed and operated by a bona fide church organization (Education Article §2-206). Each type of program is a legally sufficient way to operate in Maryland.


Approved Nonpublic Schools

Church Exempt Schools

Montessori Schools

Home Instruction



Contact:

Nonpublic School Approval
Office: (410) 767-0407


Karen Gardner
Administrative Specialist, Nonpublic School Approval
Office: (410) 767-0407
karen.gardner@maryland.gov


Alexandra Cambra
Director, Nonpublic School Approval
Office: (410) 767-0407
alexandra.cambra@maryland.gov


Fire Drill Reporting Requirements

Education Article § 7-408.1 requires nonpublic schools in Maryland to hold fire drills in accordance with State Fire Prevention Code, keep records of the drills, and send copies of those records to the State Board of Education.


Nonpublic High School Transcripts

These Instructions are for Nonpublic High School Transcripts Only. Please Do Not Continue If You Attended A Public High School


​​Students who attended a nonpublic high school that has ceased operating may request a copy of their transcript from the Nonpublic School Approval Branch.

Please allow at least 1 week to receive transcripts from schools that ceased operating from 1987 to the present, and at least 4 weeks to receive transcripts from schools that ceased operating before 1987.


Official Transcript Request ​​