The Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) supports District of Columbia students with disabilities attending nonpublic schools by ensuring that these nonpublic schools adhere to local special education laws and regulations and implement all components of each child’s individualized education program (IEP). All OSSE approved nonpublic special education schools must meet the District of Columbia certificate of approval (COA) requirements in order to be eligible to serve students enrolled in District local education agencies (LEAs). OSSE also provides nonpublic schools and other stakeholders with guidance and technical assistance resources that contribute to improved educational results and functional outcomes for students with disabilities attending nonpublic schools.

Under the Placement of Students with Disabilities in Nonpublic Special Education Schools Act (D.C. Law 16-269; D.C. Official Code §38-2561.01 et seq.), OSSE is responsible for issuing COAs to nonpublic special education schools and programs and to maintain oversight of these programs. 

For nonpublic placement information for families and LEAs, please click here.

Contact Us
For questions or additional information, please email [email protected].

The Nonpublic Oversight and Support Program is administered by OSSE’s Office of Special Populations and Programs within the Division of Systems and Supports, K-12.

[Date Posted: May 11, 2023]