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Maryland State Department of Education

Nonpublic Textbook Program

The Nonpublic Textbook Program provides secular textbooks, as well as computer hardware and software, for loan to participating nonpublic schools. School allocations are determined based on the percentage of students enrolled who qualify for free or reduced-price meals.

The program serves as a gateway to other MSDE programs for non-public schools, such as the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) Scholarship Program and the Nonpublic Aging Schools Program (NASP).

 

Application window: October 20 – December 31, 2026
Ordering window for approved schools: February 1 – April 16, 2027

Who is eligible?

This funding opportunity is designed for non-public schools registered to operate in the state of Maryland, as well as private, licensed child care providers that operate an approved educational program. To be eligible to participate, a nonpublic school or provider must complete the online application, and

  • Hold a certificate of approval from or be registered with the State Board of Education;
  • Not charge a net tuition average that is greater than $22,911; and
  • Has incorporated language into its student handbook as required by the Annotated Code of Maryland, Education Article §26-704(c).

How are funding allocations determined?

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

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 requested materials must be loaned to students for individual use, be secular in character, and 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 the 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 whiteboards, 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.

Where can I go for questions?

Contact information is at the bottom of this webpage. Or, visit a virtual customer service session below. To attend a session, click a session link below:

I’m a vendor. What should I know?

Here's what you should know:

Program Information