Choosing the Right Act 89 Provider: What Non-Public Schools Should Look For 

For Pennsylvania non-public schools, Act 89 funding provides critical support for supplemental academic and student services. But during the annual planning and vendor selection process—especially in Philadelphia—school leaders face an important decision: choosing the right Act 89 provider. 

With a limited selection window, selecting a provider is about more than availability. It’s about finding a partner who understands your school’s needs and can deliver services that make a real impact. 

Here are key considerations to guide your decision. 

1. Experience With Act 89 — and With Pennsylvania Schools 

Not all providers have the same level of familiarity with Act 89 requirements. Look for a partner with: 

• A long history supporting Act 89 programs 

• Deep understanding of Pennsylvania’s non-public school landscape 

• Experience navigating local processes, including Philadelphia’s annual vendor selection 

An experienced provider can help reduce administrative burden while ensuring services are compliant and effective. 

2. Ability to Tailor Services to Your Students 

Every school’s student population is different. The right Act 89 provider should: 

• Assess your students’ academic, social, and emotional needs 

• Design services aligned to your instructional goals 

• Adapt programming rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution 

Customization is key to turning funding into meaningful outcomes. 

3. Staffing Quality and Consistency 

Staffing plays a critical role in the success of Act 89 services. Ask providers about: 

• How staff are recruited, trained, and supported 

• Continuity of instructors throughout the year 

• Experience working with non-public school environments 

Consistent, well-trained educators help build trust and support student growth. 

4. Data, Progress Monitoring, and Reporting 

Act 89 services should be measurable. A strong provider will: 

• Track student progress regularly 

• Share clear, actionable data with school leaders 

• Use data to adjust instruction and improve outcomes 

This transparency helps schools understand what’s working and where adjustments are needed. 

5. Support Beyond Implementation 

The best Act 89 partners don’t stop at service delivery. Look for providers who offer: 

• Guidance during planning and vendor selection 

• Ongoing communication throughout the year 

• Support with monitoring, adjustments, and end-of-year reflection 

This partnership approach helps ensure long-term success, not just short-term compliance. 

Why Experience Matters 

For 50 years, Catapult Learning has partnered with Pennsylvania non-public schools to plan and implement Act 89 services tailored to each school’s unique needs. Our teams support schools from planning through delivery—helping leaders navigate the process with confidence and focus on what matters most: student success. 

Get Act 89 Support 

If your school is preparing for Act 89 planning or vendor selection, we’ve created a free resource to help guide your decisions. Learn more about Act 89 services and planning support 

With the right partner and thoughtful planning, Act 89 services can make a meaningful difference for your students.