Mission Statement

The California Association of Private School Organizations (CAPSO) is the voice of K-12 private education in California. Its primary mission is to preserve the independence of California’s private schools and to uphold parental choice in education. CAPSO, independently and in collaboration with other community and governmental institutions, is an advocate, catalyst, and creative leader for strengthening and advancing K-12 private education in California. CAPSO’s mission is based on the belief that a healthy, pluralistic society depends upon educational options, parental choice, and dialogue and collaboration between educational entities.

In This Issue...

Legislative Preview: CA Bills of Interest for Private TK-12 Schools

Private School Hygiene- Best Practice Reminders

*Includes SB 848 Webinar registration- offered again by popular demand!

Congratulations to CA's Green Ribbon Private Schools!

Educational Pluralism: An International Perspective

 Apply to Become a Green Ribbon School

No-Cost Private School PD through Title IIA Funds

Legislative Call to Action

What I've Been Reading



Legislative Preview: CA Bills of Interest for Private TK-12 Schools

February 20, 2026 marked the deadline for the introduction of bills in California for the current legislative session. In total, nearly 1,800 bills were introduced, including approximately 600 “spot” bills for which substantive legislative language is still forthcoming.

Since the start of session, CAPSO has been carefully reviewing and analyzing these bills to identify those that may directly or indirectly impact private K–12 schools. This work includes monitoring legislation that could require engagement to prevent regulatory overreach into private school autonomy, as well as identifying legislation that would impact private school access to key programs and services.

To provide transparency and timely information, the CAPSO Legislation Tracker is updated regularly to reflect the evolving status of bills that CAPSO is monitoring, potentially supporting, or potentially opposing. At present, CAPSO is actively tracking 93 bills on behalf of its members, with 40 designated on the priority tracker due to their broader or more significant potential impact on private schools statewide.

As the legislative process advances and bills move through committee hearings and amendments, future E-Mailers will provide more detailed updates on specific legislation of importance. In the meantime, CAPSO members are encouraged to visit the CAPSO Legislation Tracker to stay informed about the 2026 legislative landscape and its implications for private education in California.

Visit the CAPSO Legislation Tracker here

Private School Hygiene- Best Practice Reminders for CA Private Schools

While there are still several months remaining in the current school year, many administrators are already preparing for the 2026–2027 academic year. In that spirit, CAPSO offers the following general reminders to support private schools with navigating key programs and requirements.

Please note: The information below is provided for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Schools should consult qualified legal counsel regarding their specific circumstances.

1. E-Rate

Schools that participate in the federal E-Rate program are encouraged to structure participation so that vendors are the direct recipients of any reimbursements. Schools are reminded to avoid receiving reimbursements directly, particularly in light of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Wisconsin Bell, Inc. v. United States ex rel. Heath (2025), in which the Court held that E-Rate funds are subject to the federal False Claims Act (FCA), the implication of which is that E-Rate funds may constitute federal funds.

Because the Court affirmed that E-Rate disbursements constitute federal funds for purposes of FCA liability, schools should thoughtfully review how reimbursements are processed and consult qualified counsel regarding their participation structure. Click here to learn more about that case.

2. Title Funds (IA/IIA/IIIA/IVA)

Consultation for the 2026–2027 school year typically begins in the spring. Private schools should watch for communication from their local LEA regarding the Intent to Participate process. Private schools are encouraged to consider participation in these programs, as eligible students and educators may receive equitable services under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

If you have not received an Intent to Participate form by mid-March, you may wish to contact your LEA directly to inquire about participation.

Please remember that Title support is provided in the form of services; private schools should

not receive Title funds directly. Click here to learn more about participating in ESEA/ESSA.

3. Child Find under IDEA

Spring is often an appropriate time to coordinate with your local SELPA and/or LEA regarding students who may have suspected learning differences in preparation for the upcoming school year. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), public school districts are responsible for locating, identifying, and evaluating students with suspected disabilities, including those enrolled in private schools. This obligation—commonly referred to as the “Child Find” process—is typically initiated by a parent, often in collaboration with the private school, through the local public school district. Students who are found eligible and receive service plans generate IDEA funds that are provided in the form of services. These services are designed to support student success within the private school setting and to address identified learning needs. Click here to learn more about the Child Find Process and navigating IDEA.

4. SB 848

CAPSO was pleased to host two webinars focused on supporting private schools in navigating the requirements of SB 848. As schools prepare for the 2026–2027 academic year, they are encouraged to review relevant policy updates, training requirements, and human resources implications associated with this student-safety-focused legislation.

CAPSO members may access the CAPSO SB 848 Guide Sheet for implementation details and timeline considerations. Click here to read the full legislative language of SB 848.

By popular demand, CAPSO will offer a repeat of our SB 848 webinar for members who were unable to attend. The webinar will be offered on April 14, 2026 at 10am.

The registration link is in the CAPSO Members E-Mailer. If you are a CAPSO member and are receiving this email, please update your information using the red box at the top of this email to be moved to the members-only E-Mailer distribution list.

Reminder: As a matter of good governance, an annual review of all school policies remains an important practice to help ensure continued alignment with applicable laws and regulations.

5. Minimum Salary Threshold for Exempt Teachers

As California private schools and systems begin to determine salaries for the 2026-2027 academic year, it is critical to remember CA Labor Code Section 515.8. This labor code section outlines specific minimum threshold salary requirements for exempt private school teachers in California private schools. To support our members with this calculation, CAPSO maintains a worksheet and consolidates the relevant district and county office salaries.  Click here to access CAPSO's exempt teacher salary resources and worksheet.

Congratulations to California's Green Ribbon Private Schools!

It is with great enthusiasm that CAPSO celebrates four California private schools recognized through the California Green Ribbon Schools Program! We look forward to honoring their accomplishments at the Green Ribbon Schools State Award Ceremony this spring. Please join us in congratulating the following schools:

Green Achiever – The program’s highest distinction, recognizing exemplary, comprehensive sustainability efforts that often align with federal Green Ribbon nomination standards.

• Lycée Français de San Francisco, San Francisco County (Green Achiever)

Gold – Awarded to schools demonstrating high performance in reducing environmental impact, promoting health and wellness, and delivering strong environmental and sustainability education.

• Montessori de Terra Linda, Marin County (Gold)
• Waldorf School of Orange County, Orange County (Gold)

Silver – Recognizes schools that have meaningfully integrated sustainability into school systems and demonstrate solid achievement across environmental impact, health, and education indicators.

• School of the Madeleine, Alameda County (Silver)

To learn more about applying to become a Green Ribbon School, please visit the information shared at the bottom of this E-Mailer.

Educational Pluralism: An International Perspective

In a recent interview, Ashley Rogers Berner, director of the Institute for Education Policy at Johns Hopkins University, argues that the U.S. is unusual in how it treats public versus private school funding. Instead of framing the issue as “school choice,” she promotes the idea of “educational pluralism,” where public funds support a broad range of schools — public, private, and religious — under common academic standards, as happens in many countries around the world. In places like the Netherlands, Australia, and Singapore, governments directly fund diverse school types, and all students are held to shared expectations. Berner suggests that this pluralistic approach could lessen divisiveness in education and better serve families, while maintaining accountability and quality for all students.

Click Here to Access Full Article: The 74

Click Here to View a Map of School Choice in the USA (Hoover Institute)

Apply to Become a Green Ribbon School!

Did you know that private schools that participate in the Green Ribbon School process have the opportunity to be recognized at both the State and national levels?

The Green Ribbon School process is an opportunity to showcase efforts and be recognized for progress towards sustainability across three pillars: 

• Pillar I: Reduce environmental impact and costs;
• Pillar II: Improve the health and wellness of schools, students, and staff; and
• Pillar III: Provide effective environmental and sustainability education

Each June, the California Department of Education launches the California Green Ribbon Schools (CA-GRS) application process, inviting public and private schools, districts, and county offices of education to showcase their achievements in sustainability. Participating schools have the opportunity to demonstrate achievement and earn points in pillar categories recognized in one of four tiered levels:

• Bronze Level (Entry Level Commitment): 55-64.9%
• Silver Level (Mid Integration): 65-74.9%
• Gold Level (Full Integration): 75% or better
• Green Achiever: Exemplary Achievement with Full Integration - Green achievers are nominated for Federal recognition in the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Program (ED-GRS). 

Schools don't need to wait to apply until they have met full integration. Schools that apply will be supported with mentorship and resources, and schools with a 55%+ will be recognized with Bronze achievement by the California Department of Education!

Ready to Learn More?

California Green Ribbon Schools Achievers and Applicants Network: The CA Green Ribbon School Achiever and Applicant Network meets quarterly and aims to unite past, current, and future CA Green Ribbon Schools applicants dedicated to promoting sustainable practices and programs within their school communities. The network gives participants the chance to network with each other to inspire and share best practices. 

The application opens in June and schools are encouraged to begin learning about the application process starting in January. A comprehensive toolkit is available. Use the link below to learn more!

Green Ribbon School Toolkit and Resources

No Cost Private School PD Available

The California Department of Education receives funds through Title II, Part A, Equitable Services to provide no-cost professional development to private school educators.

The website, https://www.capspdnow.com, offers over 1000 no-cost courses available to schools and teachers in an on-demand format. Private school teachers and administrators can join the CaPSPD email distribution list to receive notifications about upcoming development opportunities by sending a blank email to join-private-school-professional-development@mlist.cde.ca.gov

Learn More About CaPSPDNow

Legislative Call to Action

Make Sure You Are Registered with CAPSO's VoterVoice

WHAT: In the months ahead, California’s legislature will consider bills that could profoundly impact private schools—how we operate, how we serve families, and how we preserve the independence that defines our communities. To ensure that the voice of California’s private schools is heard clearly and effectively, CAPSO maintains an advocacy platform: VoterVoice.

VoterVoice is a trusted, easy-to-use tool that empowers school leaders, educators, and parents to take part in legislative advocacy with just a few clicks. Once registered, you’ll receive timely alerts when your action can make a difference. With one simple email or message, your voice joins thousands of others across California to speak up for the rights and values that guide private education.

WHY: While CAPSO is typically able to manage legislative issues without requiring an organized response, this platform will allow CAPSO to mobilize our network quickly when legislation demands attention, provide accurate, up-to-date information about key bills affecting private schools, help members connect directly with their state and federal representatives, and strengthen our collective impact on policy decisions shaping the future of education in California. By registering now, you’ll ensure that you’re ready to participate in upcoming campaigns—whether defending parental choice, preserving private school autonomy, or supporting funding access for equitable services. CAPSO will continue to provide analysis, updates, and talking points to make advocacy easy and effective, but it starts with registration.

Your voice matters. Together, we represent hundreds of thousands of educators, students, and families who believe in the value of private education. When we speak together, policymakers listen.

WHEN: Register now!

HOW: Click here to visit CAPSO's VoterVoice Registration Page

What I've Been Reading...

An important component of my position is to read rigorously to stay current with all happenings that potentially impact private schools in California. A few articles always stand out as worthwhile, firsthand reads for private school leaders in California.

These articles do not necessarily represent CAPSO's perspective; they are resources that represent the diversity of thinking impacting and influencing the political and academic climate.

Have a few moments? Consider the following recommended links to What I've Been Reading...

Are Religious Charter Schools a Good Idea?

https://www.charterfolk.org/charterfolk-contributor-greg-richmond-are-religious-charter-schools-a-good-idea/

Californians and Their Government

https://www.ppic.org/publication/ppic-statewide-survey-californians-and-their-government-february-2026/

Americans More United Than Ever on Religious Freedom

https://www.freedommag.org/news/americans-more-united-than-ever-on-religious-freedom

Congress Green-Lights Education Interagency Agreements

https://www.k12dive.com/news/congress-education-department-interagency-agreements/

Justice Department Takes on LAUSD

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-02-19/trump-administration-alleges-lausd-discriminates-against-white-students

California School Budget

https://www.times-standard.com/2026/02/19/california-school-systems-face-red-ink-despite-boosts-in-education-spending/

Schools Considering Surveillance Ties

https://www.the74million.org/article/amazons-ring-cuts-ties-with-surveillance-camera-co-used-by-ice-will-schools/