Non-Public Schools Program
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Act 89 Services for Non-Public Schools
The Non-Public Schools Program (Act 89) allocates state money to intermediate units to provide auxiliary services for non-public school students according to provisions set forth in the Pennsylvania Code, Title 22, Education, Chapter 112, Auxiliary Services for non-public school students. A non-public school means a non-profit school other than a public school wherein a resident of the Commonwealth may legally fulfill compulsory school attendance requirements.
Non-Public Schools Program Services
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ACT 89 was instituted in 1974 by Pennsylvania's government to deliver additional support to students attending nonprofit non-public schools. The management of Act 89 programs is entrusted to intermediate units, which adhere to the guidelines and protocols set by the Department of Education and the Public School Code of Pennsylvania. The range of services provided is determined by the following factors:
1. Existing offerings in the school district where the non-public school is situated.
2. Students' requirements, as identified through consultations with the Intermediate Unit, non-public school administrators, teachers, students, and parents.
3. Allocation of financial resources.
4. Availability of proficient staff, materials, and equipment.
The role of the Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU) Non-Public Schools Program is to provide remediation in the areas of reading, math, speech, hearing and vision, and to provide counseling services to participating non-public schools in Allegheny County. Services are provided subject to the limitations of the annual state budget.
The following direct services are provided to eligible students by qualified professional personnel employed by the AlU:
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Instructional Services — Remedial Reading and Remedial Math
The AIU Non-Public Schools Program (NPSP) offers remedial instruction in reading and mathematics to eligible students in non-profit, nonpublic schools. Certified remedial teachers and specialists from the Pennsylvania Department of Education provide a comprehensive program consisting of referral, diagnosis, prescription and instruction.
To determine the need for remediation, school administrators or classroom teachers refer students based on best practice assessment instruments and standards. An Act 89 AIU teacher assesses the student and determines their eligibility for the program.
Eligible students can join the NPSP program from the beginning of the school year until March. Admission during these preferred times ensures the continuity and meaningful duration of support services. Referrals outside of this timeframe are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Assessments are conducted in the fall, winter, and spring to determine eligibility and track student growth and progress. Program continuation or dismissal decisions are based on the extent of academic and skill development.
The Remedial Reading and Mathematics program complements the student's regular instruction and takes place in small groups, with materials that are supplemental, explicit and systematic. Parental/guardian consent is required for student participation.
Progress monitoring occurs frequently at all intervention levels and instructional methods are adjusted accordingly. The goal is to bridge educational gaps and make significant progress toward grade-level benchmarks.
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Speech and Language Support Services
Please visit the Speech/Language Support Program page for details.
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School Counseling Services
ACT 89 counseling services are provided by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit. All school counselors are credentialed and committed to providing innovative counseling services for individual students or groups of students who need additional support for behavioral, academic, social, and emotional challenges. School counselors work as a team with the school staff, parents and the community to create a caring environment where students become healthy, competent, and confident learners. The Allegheny Intermediate Unit's school counseling program includes:
- Providing direct counseling services to students individually and in small groups;
- Developing and delivering classroom lessons focused on the domains of academic, career and social emotional development;
- Providing consultation, and referrals for support services to parents;
- Collaborating with teachers and administrators to address student needs and enhance the learning environment; and
- Promoting school success through prevention and intervention activities, advocacy and personal and social development.
*School counselors are not mental health therapists. Students needing these services will be referred to appropriate mental health agencies. However, students receiving outside services may be seen by the school counselor if the student is still experiencing barriers to learning at school. School counselors DO NOT become involved in custody issues.
- Providing direct counseling services to students individually and in small groups;
