The state of Pennsylvania established Act 89 through legislative action in 1975. The purpose of Act 89 is to provide auxiliary educational services to Pennsylvania students who are enrolled in nonprofit, non-public schools. Regulations, guidelines, and procedures are issued and updated by the state Department of Education. All related information is summarized in the Public School Code of Pennsylvania.

The Capital Area Intermediate Unit (CAIU) administers the fiscal, educational, and programmatic services to the non-public schools located within Dauphin, Cumberland, and Perry Counties. Approximately 10,000 students attend these schools.