Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Texas

The Sumners Foundation Grant aims to engage and educate the public about self-government through various programs, including civic education, democracy reform, and teacher training. Grants are available to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations primarily in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, supporting activities that foster civic engagement and understanding of democratic principles. The Foundation emphasizes direct involvement in the political process and does not fund political activities or provide individual grants.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) administers federal and state grant awards to its subgrantees to carry out a program. Such entities include primarily school systems (referred to as local educational agencies [LEAs] in statutes), including independent school districts and charter schools; education service centers (ESCs); and, to a lesser degree, institutions of higher education (IHEs), nonprofit organizations (NPOs), and other statutorily allowable organizations.

Texas Mathematics Academies (TMA) Facilitators Pilot Grant

Program Description

The Texas Mathematics Academies (TMA) represent a key component of the state’s commitment to ensuring that all students in Kindergarten through Grade 3 receive high-quality, evidence-based mathematics instruction. The purpose of this program is to provide Education Service Centers (ESC) with funding to support the effective delivery of the Texas Mathematics Academies during the pilot school year 2026–2027. The program aims to strengthen implementation through pilot support and statewide coordination of math initiatives by each regional ESC, ensuring systematic and explicit mathematics instruction. Each ESC will be required to designate a Texas Mathematics Academies Facilitator to lead coordination and implementation efforts. The goal is to offer School Systems direct support tailored to their specific implementation needs.

2026-2027 ESC Texas Instructional Leadership (TIL) Mentorship Grant

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

The purpose of this grant is to provide for ESC-to-ESC mentorship with regards to ESCs’ efforts to implement Texas Instructional Leadership (TIL) training in their regions for the benefit of campuses and school systems participating in school improvement activities. The participating ESC will provide yearlong guidance, training, and coaching to other ESCs to support building, developing, and deploying their TIL teams. One ESC will receive grant funds to provide mentorship support to nineteen other ESCs.

The Trull Foundation Grant supports charitable and educational initiatives focused on children in rural areas, those affected by substance abuse, and environmental projects in coastal Texas. Applications are accepted year-round, but early submission is encouraged. Eligible applicants include organizations with 501(c)(3) status and government entities. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with its focus areas and may not fund events that have already occurred or make long-term commitments.

2026-2027 Effective Advising Framework Implementation Grant, Year 2-3

The Effective Advising Framework (EAF) supports the development and implementation of an individual student planning system within the context of a comprehensive school counseling program. The EAF also aims to foster innovation and promotion of promising and proven career and technical education (CTE) programs, which may include nontraditional fields. This includes the development, implementation, and adoption of career pathways aligned to high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand careers and industries.

Each school system that successfully completed the requirements of the 2025–2026 EAF Implementation Grant will participate in this grant project to continue implementation of an effective advising system for either Year 2 or 3 of implementation. School systems will reconvene a steering committee to oversee implementation and the continuous improvement of the school system’s individual student planning system.

The steering committee must include representation from both elementary and secondary levels and consist of, at minimum, a certified professional school counselor, an administrator, a representative from Career and Technical Education, and a representative of special populations. The committee will be led by an EAF Project Lead, who must be a certified school counselor or an administrator. The EAF Project Lead will work in close collaboration with an EAF Coach, identified by the Education Service Center (ESC), who will support the district throughout the grant period. The EAF Coach will monitor progress and provide ongoing coaching and support aligned with the Effective Advising Framework.

During this grant period, school systems will continue to implement EAF priorities aligned to the essential actions and key practices of the Effective Advising Framework across grades 5–12. The focus of this phase is to strengthen the quality and consistency of individual student planning, measure its impact when implemented with fidelity, and build sustainable advising systems. School systems will prioritize integrating effective advising practices into staff roles, districtwide data systems, and communication structures to support long‑term implementation.

The Pangburn Foundation Grant supports charitable, religious, educational, or scientific organizations in Texas. This private foundation, administered by JPMorgan, funds only nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)3 of the IRS tax code. Individuals are not eligible to apply for this grant. For more information about the application process, please visit the foundation's finder link provided by JPMorgan.

Texas Council on Developmental Disabilities

TCDD is governed by a 27-member Council that includes people with developmental disabilities (DD), family members, and representatives from state agencies, university centers for excellence in DD, and other organizations. 

TCDD helps people with developmental disabilities (DD) achieve their potential for independence, productivity, and integration into their communities through the development of a comprehensive system of services and supports.

Translation & Interpretation Stipends

Reducing language barriers to access services and supports.

TCDD has funding available to support translation and interpretation services to reduce linguistic barriers among individuals with developmental disabilities (DD) and families to access services and supports in Texas. Funding for these stipends is made available to the TCDD through a grant from the U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C.

Stipend Intent

TCDD stipend support is available to organizations or agencies to translate printed materials or provide verbal or American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation services to reduce linguistic barriers and support people with DD and families. Translation may be offered to improve understanding and access to services and support or to inform people with DD and their families about their rights.

These stipends are intended to help reduce linguistic barriers so that all people with disabilities are fully included in their communities and exercise control over their own lives.

Stipend Requirements

The request must demonstrate that:

• the materials and messages translated with these funds are consistent with person-centered and family-centered philosophy;
• the outreach strategies will have the greatest impact to reach and include unserved and underserved populations in Texas; and
• the materials and messages are consistent with the mission, philosophy, goals, and objectives of the Council.

Limitations

TCDD stipends are intended to provide support to individuals and family members who would otherwise be unable to participate. Stipend awards should prioritize Texas residents who have not previously attended the event.

Terms

Multiple applications from an organization may be considered until the maximum allowed funding amount is reached.

Requests for Reimbursement (RARs) and activity reports must be submitted within 30 days after the translation or interpretation is completed. Payments are made based on reimbursement after the event is conducted. Documentation and receipts are required for all expenditures.

Texas organizations hosting disability-related conferences, workshops, or trainings can access funding through the Texas Council on Developmental Disabilities to provide stipends for Texas residents with developmental disabilities and their family members to attend. Grants of US $7,500 help cover participation costs and support disability-related speakers at in-state professional or informational events that advance education, advocacy, and self-determination.

Tax-exempt nonprofits, schools, and community projects in Texas can receive funding to advance education, youth development, and community welfare initiatives. Young Family Foundation provides support for projects within the YK Communications service area that show strong potential for positive impact, including programs that may help teachers and schools enhance educational opportunities and student success.

Texas school districts and campuses working to implement the Effective Schools Framework and Effective District Framework can apply for this Texas Education Agency grant, which awards US $1,818,341 for statewide support. Funding backs training, tools, resources, and events that strengthen school effectiveness and continuous improvement, which may include professional learning for educators.

SparkForce: The FMA Foundation

Formerly known as Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs (or NBT), SparkForce is the charitable foundation of the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association. While our name has changed, our mission has not. Our purpose is to inspire, attract, and support individuals in discovering an interest in manufacturing and to encourage their pursuit of a manufacturing career.

2020 marked the 50th Anniversary of FMA. Started by one man and his vision, FMA has transformed into an association dedicated to helping metal manufacturers thrive and move the industry forward.

Scholarships

SparkForce, The FMA Foundation, awards scholarships twice each year to students pursuing degrees or certifications related to manufacturing careers.

3 Scholarship Awards, 1 Application

• Community College, Trade School, or University; The U.K. Gupta & Family Scholarship; and The John Grossheim Memorial Scholarship.

Scholarship funds can be used to cover tuition, school fees, books purchased through the college store, and required tools or equipment such as PPE (if available for purchase through the college store). Funds cannot be used for housing, meals, or costs unrelated to the program.

FMA Scholarship: The U.K. Gupta & Family Scholarship

Preference given to students attending universities in north Texas.

Education service centers in Texas seeking to expand instructional leadership capacity can apply for Texas Education Agency’s ESC Texas Instructional Leadership (TIL) Mentorship Grant, with awards of US $3,092,328 to support ESC-to-ESC mentorship. Funding supports year-long guidance, training, and coaching that can strengthen professional development and continuing education for educators.

The Region VIII Scholarship, offered by ASHRAE, is a one-year award for undergraduate pre-engineering or engineering students attending accredited institutions within Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, and Mexico. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of at least 3.0 or rank in the top 30% of their class. Scholarships support students pursuing degrees related to HVAC&R, fostering future leaders in sustainable built environments.

The W. B. & Ellen Gordon Stuart Trust provides grants for the study and treatment of cancer, heart disease, and infantile paralysis, specifically within Texas. This private foundation only funds charitable nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code. Grant applications cannot be submitted by individuals. For more information on the application process and eligibility, interested parties should refer to the foundation finder.

The William & Catherine Bryce Memorial Fund Grant supports charitable, benevolent, religious, or educational institutions, preferably located in Fort Worth, Texas. This grant aims to enhance the community through various initiatives that align with its mission. Interested applicants should refer to the foundation finder for detailed information about the application process and eligibility requirements. This funding opportunity encourages local organizations to apply and contribute positively to their community.

The Luella Kemper Trust Grant, administered by Bank of America, supports quality education and human services for underserved populations, particularly in Grayson County, Texas. Established in 1986, it aims to address community needs through targeted grants that typically last one year. Nonprofit organizations dedicated to enhancing education and human services in Texas are encouraged to apply, especially those focused on Grayson County's underserved communities.

Texas undergraduate and graduate students majoring in elementary education can receive $4,000 one-time scholarships for tuition, required fees, and books. Texas teachers pursuing or continuing their education may be eligible if enrolled full-time at a four-year Texas college or university and meeting the 2.5 GPA and U.S. citizenship requirements.

The Dan L Duncan Houston Safari Club Foundation Scholarship Program, administered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports full-time students pursuing degrees in Wildlife Management or Range Management at accredited Texas colleges. Applicants must be juniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate a commitment to wildlife management. This scholarship offers funding for tuition, fees, books, and other educational expenses, helping to develop future leaders in conservation and wildlife advocacy.

Rural Texas high school seniors and college students pursuing four-year engineering or computer science degrees at public Texas universities can receive up to US $16,000 in renewable scholarship funding. Focused on higher education, Greater Houston Community Foundation invites eligible Texas students, including those who are teachers-in-training in STEM fields, to apply for tuition, fees, and book support.

The California Casualty Thomas R. Brown Athletics Grant aims to support public middle and high school sports programs facing funding challenges due to budget cuts. Established by California Casualty, this grant provides financial assistance for purchasing equipment and covering travel costs for competitions. Eligible applicants must be active employees of public schools and members of affiliated education associations. Awards cannot be used for individual student recognition or fundraising projects.

The Charlotte and Jule S. Theobald Scholarship Trust, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports graduate students pursuing a degree in Veterinary Medicine at Texas A&M College Station. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. This renewable scholarship covers costs related to attendance, including fees, books, and living expenses, ensuring a lasting impact on the education of future veterinary professionals.

Humanities Texas offers Mini Grants to support public humanities programs, enhancing educational quality in Texas. These grants, available on a rolling basis, fund projects that engage communities through lectures, exhibitions, and workshops. Applicants must be nonprofit organizations or governmental entities and need a DUNS number. The program emphasizes collaboration with humanities scholars to ensure projects are rooted in inquiry and accessible to diverse audiences. This initiative not only fosters lifelong learning but also strengthens the cultural and civic fabric of Texas.

Humanities Texas offers major grants to support community and media projects that enhance education, culture, and history in Texas. Grants fund various initiatives including lectures, seminars, exhibitions, and media productions, with a focus on engaging the public and involving humanities scholars. Since 1974, over 5,000 grants have been awarded, fostering community development and promoting public humanities programs. The program aims to empower local organizations to create impactful educational experiences, contributing to the cultural richness of Texas.

The Community Forestry Grants Program by Texas A&M Forest Service aims to enhance human health and access through urban forestry. It encourages projects that support climate resiliency and health equity, particularly in disadvantaged communities. Grants of $50,000 are available for initiatives that integrate urban forestry into planning and promote public health benefits. Eligible entities include public and non-profit organizations, emphasizing community engagement and sustainable forestry practices.

The Texas A&M Forest Service's Community Forestry Grants Program aims to enhance urban and community forestry across Texas by funding Municipal Forester positions. These grants support cities in establishing qualified foresters to promote tree management, community engagement, and policy development. By fostering sustainable practices, this initiative contributes to the health and resilience of local ecosystems, ultimately benefiting both the environment and the communities they serve.

The Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) Cultural District Designation Program aims to enhance economic development and community vitality by designating cultural districts across Texas. These districts leverage cultural resources to attract artists, encourage tourism, and preserve historic sites, fostering local cultural identity and economic growth. Eligible applicants include various arts organizations and government agencies, while funding excludes expenses related to social functions, operating costs for certain facilities, and projects lacking community involvement.

The Texas A&M Forest Service invites proposals for the 2026 Community Forestry Grants Program, aimed at enhancing urban and community forestry across Texas. This program focuses on sustainable tree planting initiatives that increase canopy coverage, improve public health, and address sustainability issues such as climate and water quality. By applying, communities not only enhance their environments but also contribute to their resilience and well-being, fostering healthier urban ecosystems.