Nonpublic Textbook Program

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 and the Nonpublic Aging Schools Program (NASP).


Application window: October 26 – December 29, 2023
Ordering window for approved schools: February 1 - April 19, 2024


Who is eligible?

This funding opportunity is designed for nonpublic schools registered to operate in the state of Maryland as well as licensed child care providers that operate an approved Pre-K education program.. 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 $19,821; and

  • Has incorporated language into its student handbook as required by Annotated Code of Maryland Code, Education Article §26-704(c).


How are funding allocations determined?

Funding allocations are determined using the following formula based on the percentage of student enrollment who qualify for Free and Reduced Meals (FARMs). 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.

How can the funds be used?

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. For additional guidance and examples, see the Program Information Guide.


Funds can be used for:Funds cannot be used for:
  • Secular textbooks
  • Manipulatives for individual student use that accompany curriculum
  • Technology hardware for individual student use
  • Technology software for individual student use
  • Food
  • Tuition or scholarships
  • Construction or capital improvements
  • Salaries
  • Utilities or operating costs
  • Materials that contain religious content
  • Items not for loan to students for individual use
  • Items for teacher or parent use
  • Items for toddlers or infants
Examples: textbooks, workbooks, leveled readers, classroom library books, tablets, laptops, headphone sets, puzzles, manipulatives, math block sets, student and teacher licenses to learning websites, yoga mats, instruments, magna tiles, dolls of community helpers, sensory objects, costumes for imaginative play, shape sorters, consumables, flash cards, counters, calculators, robotic kits for students, etc.Examples: interactive white boards, televisions, playground equipment, software for teacher or parent use, furniture, rugs, laminating machines, printers, storage, play kitchens, large doll houses, office supplies, clothing, group board games, large robotic equipment, etc.

How does that work?

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.


Where can I go for questions?

Contact the individuals at the bottom of this page. 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:


Sessions for Nonpublic Schools on the application process:


Sessions for Nonpublic Schools on the ordering process:


Sessions for Vendors:

  • January 11, 2024 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
    View the recording

  • January 16, 2024 from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.


I’m a vendor. What should I know?

Here's what you should know:





Nicole Obregon
Special Fiscal Programs Administrator, Office of Grants Administration & Compliance
Office: (410) 767-2939
nptextbook.msde@maryland.gov