About Therapeutic Boarding Schools in Maryland

Maryland Residential Treatment Centers and Therapeutic Boarding Schools

There are no requirements for accreditation for nonpublic schools, however, registration is mandatory in the form of a Certificate of Approval from the Maryland State Board of Education. Bona fide church organizations are exempt from this requirement, although the school must be registered with the state and present acceptable evidence of the church organization legal authority status.

 A certificate of Approval is also required by Maryland to operate “noncollegiate educational institutions.” This certificate is based on appropriateness and adequacy of the facilities, educational requirements, standards and personnel requirements. 

Teachers approved under private pay are required to have a bachelor’s degree or 120 semester hour equivalent with the exception of those teaching subjects other than English, language arts, mathematics, social studies and science. The State Board of Education is responsible for establishing minimum requirements for issuing diplomas. Approved schools must have a curriculum that reflects the same courses taught in public schools.

Nonpublic schools must remain in compliance with applicable health, fire safety and zoning regulations. All employees of nonpublic schools who have access to students must undergo a criminal background check. 

Reference: http://www2.ed.gov