Best Grants for K-12 Schools in Texas

The TX AmeriCorps Planning Grant, managed by OneStar, aims to address Texas's social challenges through national service. Engaging over 3,200 AmeriCorps members across 33 organizations, it focuses on disaster services, economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and support for veterans. This initiative enhances community resilience, improves lives, and fosters civic engagement by directing resources effectively to those in need, contributing to a stronger, more interconnected Texas.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) 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. TEA helps deliver education to more than 5 million students under the leadership of the commissioner of education. The TEA operational costs are supported by both state and federal funds.

The Texas Education Agency 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.

School Action Fund Planning Continuation, Year 2

Program Description

The purpose of the 2026-2027 School Action Fund Planning Continuation – Year 2 Grant is to assist applicants with the implementation and execution of already planned whole-school actions which received a School Action Fund Grant - Planning and Implementation (LASO 2) grant, and which will provide an opportunity for the applicant to create new and improved learning environments that sustainably increase student achievement, increase access to high-quality schools, meet community needs, and address chronic under-performance. 

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) 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. TEA helps deliver education to more than 5 million students under the leadership of the commissioner of education. The TEA operational costs are supported by both state and federal funds.

The Texas Education Agency 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.

School Action Fund Grant-Planning and Implementation Continuation Year 1

Program Description

The purpose of the 2026-2027 School Action Fund Grant-Planning and Implementation Continuation Year 1 grant is to assist applicants with the implementation and execution of already planned whole-school actions which received a School Action Fund Grant-Planning and Implementation (LASO 3) grant, and which will provide an opportunity for the applicant to create new and improved learning environments that sustainably increase student achievement, increase access to high-quality schools, meet community needs, and address chronic under-performance. 

The Peters Charitable Foundation Grant, established in 2014, aims to support organizations serving Brazos County, Texas, with a focus on education, health, and human services. Applications are accepted year-round, with a July 31 deadline for fall review. The foundation prioritizes funding specific projects rather than general operational needs, with an average annual giving of $50,000. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and submit applications through the designated online form.

Texas K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative

The purpose of this initiative is to provide immediate solutions to protect Texas school systems from major cyber incidents, such as ransomware. In addition to delivering near-term protections, the initiative will assist school systems in maturing their overall cybersecurity programs by strengthening governance, processes, and technical capabilities. The initiative will also provide cybersecurity learning opportunities and training to build local capacity, increase cybersecurity awareness, and support the long-term sustainability of security practices across participating school systems. Priority will be given to high-need school systems, and technical assistance will be available through regional ESCs to support the implementation of cybersecurity controls within the scope of this initiative.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) 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. TEA helps deliver education to more than 5 million students under the leadership of the commissioner of education. The TEA operational costs are supported by both state and federal funds.

The Texas Education Agency 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.

Pipeline to Leadership (P2L) Cohort 3 Grant

Program Description

Pipeline to Leadership (P2L) is technical assistance (TA) for school systems that address short- and long-term instructional needs by reimagining school staff roles and redesigning school schedules and compensation within their existing budget. Simultaneously, this service supports school systems as they strengthen educator pipelines and maximize the impact of the most effective teachers. 

Texas Tutoring Support Grant

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) will grant funds to establish a single Education Service Center (ESC) tutoring hub. The ESC hub will hold an annual summit focusing on supports for tutoring best practices and implementation as outlined in TEC §28.0211, facilitate a cohort lead by a contracted organization in the fundamental components of outcomes-based contracting (OBC) implementation, and assist in the development of supports that can be used as examples for other school systems in implementation of OBC.

Direct Administrative Costs

TEA limits the amount of direct administrative costs for this grant program to no more than 5% of the total grant award.

Indirect Costs

For this grant program, the grantee may claim a maximum for allowable indirect costs equal to its current approved unrestricted indirect cost rate. 

The ALDI Community Gift Card Program provides financial support ranging from $100 to $1,000 to eligible nonprofits and schools that focus on after-school and out-of-school youth programs, as well as food banks. This initiative aims to empower organizations dedicated to child development and combating food insecurity. By applying, you can gain access to essential resources to further your mission and make a positive impact in your community.

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.

Innovative Services for Students with Autism, Cycle 3, Year 1

Program Description

This initiative will provide funding for Texas school systems to implement innovative services that improve functional and/or academic outcomes for students with autism. The project will result in effective, scalable models that can be replicated in other areas of the state.

Simmons First Foundation: Environmental Grant

Amount:

• $2,500 up to $25,000

These funds are to be used for conservation and/or environmental purposes. We prefer the projects support the overall theme of youth (K-12) in the fields of education or health care, however, we do have flexibility on projects that will have an indirect impact on youth. Categories for this grant include, but not limited to: water, air, hunting/fishing, forestry, outdoor education, energy, etc.

Simmons First Foundation: Make a Difference Grant

Amount:

• $2,500 up to $50,000

For the upcoming grant cycle, funding will be limited to programs focused on:Special Education:  K-12 Youth with disabilities, including physical disabilities, developmental and cognitive disabilities, and sensory impairments.   (examples including):

• Inclusive theater and performing arts programs
• Adapted, hands-on STEM learning
• Accessible coding, robotics, and maker-space activities
• Science-based learning adapted for diverse abilities
• Assistive technology and adaptive learning tools
• Adaptive physical education and recreation programs

Substance Abuse and Violence Prevention:  K-12 Youth (examples including):

• Evidence-based prevention programs targeting alcohol, opioids, vaping, and other substance use
• Skill-building programs that focus on refusal skills, decision making, coping strategies, and peer pressure resistanc
• Early intervention programs for at-risk youth
• Recovery support services for youth in early recovery (including peer support groups, mentoring, and relapse prevention planning)
• Youth-focused programs that teach emotional regulation, anger management, and non-violent communication
• Intervention programs for youth exposed to or at risk of violence
• Peer mediation and restorative justice programs that reduce disciplinary incidents and promote accountability

Simmons First Foundation: Mini Grant

Amount:

• $1,000 up to $2,500 
•  Projects must pertain to youth (K-12) in the fields of education or health care. Mini Grants are for immediate (long-term) needs for programs and entities must be a 501c3 organization.

The Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation Grant aims to support programs benefiting children in Texas, focusing on growth, self-esteem, and innovation. Grants usually do not exceed $10,000 for program funding and can reach up to $50,000 for capital needs. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and serve children within Texas. The foundation encourages collaborative projects and may request site visits to evaluate grant proposals effectively.

The 2025-2026 SP Supports 3 program by the Texas Education Agency aims to empower families of emergent bilingual (EB) students through effective engagement activities. The initiative focuses on providing educators and families with training and resources to enhance collaboration in instructional decisions. By leveraging statewide in-person and virtual training, the program seeks to strengthen school systems' internal practices for engaging families, ultimately fostering a supportive environment for EB students.

The Texas Education for Homeless Children and Youth (TEHCY) Resource Grant, administered by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance educational outcomes for homeless students in Texas. This grant supports innovative practices that identify, enroll, and assist these students, ensuring they access essential services. By fostering regional collaboration and implementing best practices, the TEHCY program strengthens support systems for education service centers and school districts, ultimately striving for improved academic success for all affected students.

The 2025-2026 Teach for America grant aims to enhance the quality of education in Texas by funding proven models to recruit and retain effective teachers, particularly in high-need areas like the Rio Grande Valley and major metropolitan regions. The initiative targets increased employment of TFA teachers, emphasizing training in Bilingual/ESL, science, and math. By 2026, the goal is to have at least 2,100 TFA educators in classrooms serving economically disadvantaged students, ultimately improving student achievement.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

ON Semiconductor Foundation

onsemi is a leading semiconductor manufacturer serving tens of thousands of customers across several markets with intelligent power and sensing technologies.

The ON Semiconductor Foundation, an onsemi Giving Now program, has named PLTW a strategic partner and made an additional investment to support grants for schools in onsemi communities to implement or expand the PLTW Biomedical Science program for the 2026-2027 school year.

PLTW Biomedical Science- Program Expansion

Program Requirements

Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Biomedical Science course in the 2026-2027 academic year. Schools may implement any PLTW Biomedical Science courses of their choosing.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

ON Semiconductor Foundation

onsemi is a leading semiconductor manufacturer serving tens of thousands of customers across several markets with intelligent power and sensing technologies.

The ON Semiconductor Foundation, an onsemi Giving Now program, has named PLTW a strategic partner and made an additional investment to support grants for schools in onsemi communities to implement or expand the PLTW Biomedical Science program for the 2026-2027 school year.

PLTW Biomedical Science - New Program

Program Requirements

Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Biomedical Science course in the 2026-2027 academic year. Schools may implement any PLTW Biomedical Science courses of their choosing.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Family Literacy Grants to nonprofit organizations that support family literacy initiatives. Eligible applicants must provide services such as adult education, children's education, and parent-child engagement activities. Organizations must be located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and have a valid IRS tax ID. This funding aims to enhance literacy skills for families, empowering individuals to achieve their educational goals.

The School Improvement PLC Supports grant, funded by the Texas Education Agency, aims to bolster instructional practices at Title I campuses identified for improvement. By providing resources such as enhanced PLC facilitation, increased observations, and individualized coaching, the initiative seeks to strengthen the use of high-quality instructional materials. Ultimately, the goal is to improve student outcomes by ensuring effective implementation of educational strategies within these schools.

The School Action Fund (SAF) aims to enhance access to quality education by supporting districts in implementing whole-school strategies. This initiative focuses on addressing community needs and tackling chronic underperformance, ultimately striving to ensure that more students can attend A/B-rated campuses. The upcoming 2026-2027 SAF grant will specifically assist Restart Action grantees in achieving Resource Campus designation, paving the way for improved educational opportunities within their communities.

The Leadership & Instructional Foundations for Texas (LIFT) Grant is a three-year initiative aimed at enhancing the instructional capacity of Texas school systems. By integrating key elements of Strong Foundations, Texas Instructional Leadership, and Texas Lesson Study, LIFT provides comprehensive support to districts. The program ensures all Texas students receive high-quality, grade-level instruction daily, promoting sustainable improvement through strong leadership and high-quality instructional materials.

The 2025-2026 Perkins V grant aims to enhance career and technical education (CTE) for secondary students by developing their academic and employability skills. It focuses on integrating rigorous academic and technical instruction, increasing flexibility in service provision, and building partnerships among educational institutions and industries. Additionally, the program seeks to support underrepresented populations, ensuring they gain the necessary skills for competitive employment in high-demand fields.

The Behmann Brothers Foundation, established in October 1979, focuses on supporting agricultural research, education, youth groups, healthcare, and service organizations. Grants are available for non-profit organizations recognized as public charities by the IRS, primarily in Texas counties including Nueces and Aransas. However, the Foundation does not fund individuals, governmental entities, or political activities, ensuring support is directed towards community enhancement and welfare.

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 Division of Governance Interventions supports TEA’s mission and vision by providing exceptional leadership, guidance, and support to school system leadership teams and governing boards. The division collaborates with external field support agents appointed by the TEA Commissioner of Education to build sustainable systems aligned to core TEA initiatives, so that the school system thrives after the release of agency intervention. 

Communities In Schools

Program Description

The purpose of the CIS program is to remove barriers to learning to keep students persisting through their education. CIS partners with educators, students, and parents to identify students who are at-risk of dropping out of school and determine their unique needs and reasons for disengagement. Once these needs are identified, CIS customizes supports for campuses, students, and families that are uniquely tailored to the identified needs and provides schoolwide services and individual case management to support both students and the entire school. CIS engages the community as a vital part of the process and strives to connect the campus and students to needed community resources. This comprehensive model includes effective program administration; trained professional staff on each campus, community resource coordination; holistic, case management for students and families with significant needs and schoolwide services aligned to campus goals.

The Powell Foundation Grant Program aims to support 501(c)(3) organizations in Texas, focusing on education, arts, conservation, and human services. They emphasize high-quality early childhood programs, K-12 education, post-secondary success, and community welfare. Eligible applicants must submit an online pre-application, with funding decisions announced in January and July. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that foster developmental support and educational access for children and families, enhancing community well-being through strategic investments.

The Roy & Christine Sturgis Charitable Trust, established in 1981, supports educational, cultural, and health care initiatives in Arkansas and Texas. With a focus on one-year grants, it promotes capital projects, medical research, and endowment campaigns. Organizations in Texas, especially in the Dallas area, receive strong preference. Ineligible applicants include those who have recently received grants from other foundations or multi-year grants, which require a two-year wait before reapplying.