The following words and phrases when used in this article shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

“Department.” The Department of Education of the Commonwealth.

“Higher education institution.” Any public or private two-year or four-year or higher postsecondary institution in this Commonwealth that has been accredited at the college level by an accrediting agency recognized by the United States Secretary of Education.

“Nonpublic school.” A nonpublic kindergarten, elementary school or secondary school at which a resident of this Commonwealth may legally fulfill the compulsory school attendance requirements of Article XIII¹ and which meets the requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Public Law 88-352, 78 Stat. 241).²

“Program.” The Science Technology Partnership Program established in section 1502-F.³

“Public school.” Any school owned or operated by a public school district established under this act, including any school established pursuant to Article XVII-A.⁴

“School.” A public school or nonpublic school.

“Science technology partnership” or “partnership.” A science technology partnership established under section 1503-F.⁵

“Scientific or technical equipment.” Technical or electronic equipment used in teaching science courses, including laboratory equipment. The equipment may include equipment that is not routinely used in the teaching of science but that is commonly used in the workplace and the fields of health, environment, scientific research, biology, chemistry, geology or other earth sciences, physics or any other scientific field.

“Secretary.” The Secretary of Education of the Commonwealth.