Maryland NSHS Grant Program article image

Maryland's Nonpublic School Health and Security (NSHS) Program is providing $2.5 million in FY2027 funding to help eligible nonpublic schools support student health and strengthen school security. For schools considering security improvements, eligible expenses can include camera surveillance systems, visitor management systems, fire alarm systems, security system installation, security personnel and training, and certain security equipment and software. Some equipment, software, and low-cost security upgrades require advance approval from the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE).

Who Is Eligible?

The program is limited to 153 Maryland nonpublic schools that participated in the Nonpublic Textbook Program and had at least one BOOST Scholarship student enrolled during FY2026. Each eligible school will receive a base allocation of $8,170, plus an additional per-student allocation based on enrollment reported through the FY2026 Nonpublic Textbook Program.

When and How Do Schools Apply?

The online application is open now and must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. on September 23, 2026. Schools will need to select their school from the list of eligible applicants, identify a point of contact, confirm their intent to participate, provide their EIN and business name when applicable, upload a current W-9, and agree to the program assurances.

Participating schools are expected to receive their Notice of Grant Award in October 2026. Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis, so schools should carefully document eligible expenses, invoices, proof of payment, and project completion. The grant period runs through June 30, 2027.

Resources and Assistance

For questions about the NSHS Program, contact Jodi Vallaster, Ed.D., Grant Coordinator, MSDE Office of Special Fiscal Programs, at 410-767-0976 or grants.msde@maryland.gov.

Schools that would like professional assistance with the grant process can also work with grant-writing firms such as EMD Design Consulting Services, which provides grant application and grant management services for security-related funding opportunities.

Elisa Mula, Founder | CEO | Protection Management Specialis
Office: 833.363.6921 - Website: www.emdnyc.com

If your school is eligible and you are considering improvements to video surveillance, visitor management, alarms, or other security systems, this is a good opportunity to evaluate your needs now rather than waiting until the application deadline approaches. MidChes is available to help customers explore security technology options that may fit their planned projects.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Maryland Nonpublic School Health and Security Program?

The Nonpublic School Health and Security, or NSHS, Program provides funding to eligible Maryland nonpublic schools for school health services and security improvements. For FY2027, Maryland has allocated $2.5 million to the program.

Who is eligible for the FY2027 NSHS grant?

Eligibility is limited to 153 nonpublic schools that participated in the Nonpublic Textbook Program and had at least one BOOST Scholarship Program student enrolled during FY2026.

How much funding can an eligible school receive?

Every eligible school receives a base allocation of $8,170, plus an additional per-student allocation based on enrollment reported through the FY2026 Nonpublic Textbook Program.

What school security improvements can the grant fund?

Eligible security expenses include camera surveillance systems and installation, visitor monitoring or management systems, fire alarm replacement or installation, security system installation, staff security training, security personnel, and certain security equipment and software. Some equipment, software, and low-cost non-capital improvements require MSDE pre-approval.

When is the application deadline?

Eligible schools must submit the online application by 11:59 p.m. on September 23, 2026.

What information is required to apply?

Schools must select their school from the eligible-school list, designate a point of contact, indicate their intent to participate, provide their EIN and business name when applicable, upload a current W-9, and agree to the program assurances.

How are grant funds paid?

The program operates on a reimbursement basis. Schools must provide invoices and supporting documentation, including proof of payment and evidence that the project has been completed. Final invoices are due by June 30, 2027.

Is grant-writing assistance available?

Yes. Schools that would like assistance preparing or managing their grant application can consider professional grant-writing firms such as EMD, at www.emdnyc.com.