Best Professional Development Grants for Teachers in New York

New York firms and contractors that provide clean energy curriculum resources or educator professional development can apply for NYSERDA’s Clean Energy Career Awareness Program, with awards up to US $5,000,000. Grants from New York State Energy Research and Development Authority help New York teacher development and training through web-based teaching resources and large-scale educator training, especially in disadvantaged communities and priority districts.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and public agencies in New York working on teacher development and training can seek support for professional development initiatives. Focused on strategic, long-term impact, the Peter and Carmen Lucia Buck Foundation offers primarily general operating and some restricted grants to high-performing education organizations whose work aligns with its program goals.

Secondary school theatre educators in New York can use the BACKstage Grant for professional development, including conferences, workshops, travel, and classroom equipment. With a mission to connect performing arts design and technology communities, United States Institute for Theatre Technology supports teacher development and student training in theatre design, technology, management, and production, with awards up to US $500.

Geoscience educators contributing to professional communities in New York and beyond can be honored for long-term service through the Robert Christman Distinguished Service Award. The National Association of Geoscience Teachers recognizes individuals who have significantly served the Association at national and/or section levels; active NAGT members submit detailed nomination letters for consideration.

Teacher development and Earth science education initiatives in New York can access funding and promotional support through the National Association of Geoscience Teachers. NAGT sponsors long-term programs and single events led by organizations, groups, or individuals that align with its mission and follow its ethics policy and code of conduct, and provides visibility for sponsored activities.

Geoscience educators and professionals contributing peer reviews to the Journal of Geoscience Education can receive US $500 awards recognizing outstanding review quality and commitment. Grants from the National Association of Geoscience Teachers help support professional growth for reviewers, which may benefit New York teachers involved in Earth science education and teacher development and training.

With a mission to promote excellence in geoscience education, National Association of Geoscience Teachers provides New York teacher development and training professionals with the JGE Outstanding Paper Award, offering US $500 for exemplary geoscience education research articles. Eligible nominators include Journal of Geoscience Education readers, authors, and Editorial Board members recognizing innovative, high-impact scholarship.

New York geoscience educators focused on teacher development and training can access recognition and support through the Neil Miner Award, honoring exceptional stimulation of interest in the Earth sciences. Nominated individuals are evaluated by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers based on letters from students, colleagues, and administrators plus a curriculum vitae.

Focused on teacher development and training, this program invites New York geoscience departments to nominate outstanding undergraduate or graduate teaching assistants for national recognition. Eligible TAs support geoscience education instruction; nominations must come from an instructor or department leader and may be submitted up to 12 months after the student’s graduation.

K–12 teachers and educators who teach significant earth science content in New York can receive recognition and support for outstanding classroom work. Grants from National Association of Geoscience Teachers help New York teacher development and training by honoring exceptional contributions, stimulating higher teaching performance, and strengthening connections among pre-college earth science educators nationwide.

New York teacher development and training professionals in geoscience education who advance justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion can be nominated for this recognition award. The Excellence in JEDI Award from the National Association of Geoscience Teachers honors individuals for impactful JEDI-focused activities, mentorship, leadership, and scholarship, and includes a complimentary one-year NAGT membership and presentation opportunity.

Earth science educators producing exceptional writing or editing for the public or teachers, including those in New York, can be nominated for the James H. Shea Award. This annual honor from the National Association of Geoscience Teachers recognizes outstanding Earth science materials and may support educators engaged in professional development and teacher training. NAGT members submit nominations, including self-nominations.

Focused on teacher development and training, the Schenectady Foundation supports Schenectady County high school seniors planning teaching careers with scholarships up to US $10,000. New York students who meet academic, residency, and financial need criteria can use funds for college tuition and related costs, which may help future teachers access professional preparation opportunities.

Teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community members in New York’s Germantown Central School District can apply for Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation’s Germantown Student Education Arts and Humanities Endowment, awarding US $100 - US $2,500 for arts and humanities projects. Funding can support professional development, artists-in-residence, field trips, new programs, independent study, and other enrichment activities.

Middle and high school teachers in New York seeking professional development through Harvard Extension School courses can access discounted tuition via the Lowell Teachers Scholarships. With a mission to expand rigorous continuing education, Harvard University provides educators with half-tuition scholarships for one fall or spring course, supporting higher education, adult learning, and teacher development.

The MSU Graduate Teaching Scholarships recognize the vital role graduate students play in undergraduate education by providing financial support for their teaching efforts. Eligible candidates must have a graduate teaching assistantship, complete professional development, and apply before the semester starts. Scholarships range from $250 to $1000, promoting excellence in teaching and enriching the educational experience at Montana State University.

The BIE Professional Development Funding for STEM Educators and Students, offered by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, supports training opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for TCU faculty, staff, and students. This funding assists with costs related to professional development including continuing education, conferences, and certifications. Eligible applicants include educators at BIE-funded or controlled schools, as well as those at institutions with significant Native American populations, fostering increased representation and support for Native scholars.

Scholarships and Awards

The National Federation of the Blind offers several scholarships and awards that honor blind individuals as well as teachers, professionals, entrepreneurs, and organizations whose work benefits the blind community.

Blind Educator of the Year Award

Recognize a blind educator who strives to guide, uplift, and advocate for their blind students and the needs of blind people.

The Blind Educator of the Year Award was established by the National Organization of Blind Educators, a division of the National Federation of the Blind, in 1991 to recognize outstanding blind teachers.

Every year, the award pays tribute to a blind teacher whose exceptional classroom performance, notable community service, and uncommon commitment to the NFB merit national recognition. A teacher not only provides information but also guidance, advocacy, and love. The recipient of the Blind Educator of the Year Award must exhibit all of these traits and must advance the cause of blind people in the spirit and philosophy of the NFB.

The Award

The Blind Educator of the Year Award is presented at the NFB National Convention.

The CGC scholarship provides Pre-K to grade 12 teachers with an opportunity to explore the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and gain insights into the role of plants in our ecosystem. Participants will engage in hands-on learning about plant biology and their interactions within diverse environments. The scholarship covers course fees and essential materials, promoting authentic learning experiences that teachers can implement in their classrooms.

The Prospective PK-6 Elementary Teacher Course Work Scholarship, offered by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, provides financial support to college students aiming to become certified elementary teachers focused on mathematics. Eligible candidates must complete their sophomore year, maintain a GPA of at least 3.0, and demonstrate a commitment to teaching. This scholarship promotes high-quality mathematics education, ensuring future educators are well-prepared to inspire students in their learning journey.

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Special Education, offered by the UNICO Foundation, provides two scholarships of $2,500 each for U.S. students pursuing degrees in Special Education. Eligible candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and plan to continue their studies into the 2026-2027 academic year. This scholarship supports students with various disabilities, ensuring that education is accessible and equitable for all.

The NewSchools Learning Differences Grant Program aims to enhance educational opportunities for students who learn differently, particularly those affected by poverty and racism. The program invests in innovative solutions and models that support personalized education for these students, ensuring they have access to quality instruction and belonging within school communities. With a focus on equity, it seeks ideas that align with its core investment areas and addresses the needs of marginalized learners.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The James C. Kapteyn Endowment Fund, established in 2009, honors the legacy of dedicated educator Jamie Kapteyn. This fund recognizes exemplary high school teachers in the Berkshire Taconic region, offering the annual Kapteyn Prize to those who inspire students and excel in various school roles. Winners are encouraged to use the funds for personal enrichment, enhancing their teaching impact. Nominations are accepted from school leaders for teachers committed to fostering excellence in education.

The Fund for Teachers Fellowship empowers educators to design personalized learning experiences that enhance their professional skills and student engagement. With over 20 years of experience, this initiative has supported more than 10,000 teachers, enabling them to transform their classrooms through unique fellowship opportunities. Eligible applicants include full-time teachers in the U.S. who have at least three years of teaching experience and plan to return to the classroom after their fellowship. This fellowship fosters innovative teaching practices and collaborative growth.

The Elizabeth Hurlock Beckman Award Trust Grant honors educators who inspire students to create impactful organizations or movements. Established in 2008, the trust has awarded over $3.5 million to 148 professors across the U.S. The grant primarily supports those teaching in psychology, medicine, or law, emphasizing the importance of community contribution. Eligibility is limited to U.S. citizens or permanent residents who have inspired their former students to make a difference.

The MG Eugene C. Renzi, USA (Ret.) STEM Teachers Scholarship, funded by AFCEA and ManTech International, offers $2,500 annually to support U.S. citizens or permanent residents pursuing graduate-level education in STEM teaching for grades K-12. This scholarship honors the legacy of Maj. Gen. Renzi and is aimed at candidates with a minimum GPA of 3.5 who are enrolled in accredited programs. It covers tuition and course-related expenses, fostering future educators in critical STEM fields.