The state education agency (SEA) must designate an ombudsman to monitor and enforce the requirements related to equitable services provided to non-public school children, teachers, and other educational personnel in non-public schools as outlined in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).[Sec. 1117(a)(3)(B) and Sec.8501(a)(3)(B)].

The ombudsman’s role as a fair and impartial mediator helps to ensure equitable services for non-public school children, teachers, and other educational personnel.

Ombudsman’s Roles and Responsibilities

• Monitors and enforces equitable services requirements under Title I, Part A and programs governed under Title VIII: Title I, Part C; Title II, Part A; Title III, Part A; and Title IV, Part A & B;
• Monitors consultation between school districts and non-public schools;
• Addresses questions and concerns from non-public school officials and public school administrators regarding the provision of equitable services under Titles I and VIII;
• Serves as the primary point of contact for responding to and resolving any formal complaints regarding equitable services that the SEA receives under its ESEA complaint procedure;
• Provides resources, processes and training for equitable services;
• Works in partnership with the Office of Title Grants and Support to develop monitoring protocols applicable to the provision of equitable services under each program.