Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Texas

The Amarillo Handgunners Association offers the Bill Goodson Memorial Scholarship for graduating high school seniors in the northern Texas Panhandle. This scholarship encourages students involved in shooting sports to pursue higher education at any accredited institution in their chosen field of study. Recipients must maintain good standing while attending college, making this a valuable opportunity for aspiring scholars in the 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.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is a federal K–12 education law. ESSA was signed into law in 2015, replacing No Child Left Behind, and reauthorizing the original Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), which was signed into law in 1965 by President Lyndon Baines Johnson.

ESSA requires every state to measure performance in reading, math, and science. Every school must inform parents about their standards and their results. 

ESSA requires every state to provide parents important information on test performance in reading, math, and science. The report cards must also provide data on graduation rates, suspensions, absenteeism, teacher qualifications, and many other areas. Texas provides maximum transparency for parents and publicly shares performance information on TXschools.gov and in data reports on the Performance Reporting pages.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant includes: 1) Title I, Part A Grants; 2) Title I, Part C Grants; 3) Title I, Part D, Subpart 1 Grants; 4) Title I, Part D, Subpart 2 Grants; 5) Title II, Part A Grants; 6) Title III, Part A ELA Grants; 7) Title III, Part A Immigrant Grants; and 8) Title IV, Part A, Subpart 1 Grants.

Title I, Part D, Subpart 2 

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

[ESSA, Section 1421]

The purpose of Title I, Part D, Subpart 2, is to do the following:

• To carry out high-quality education programs to prepare children and youth for secondary school completion, training, employment, or further education;
• Provide children and youth with the services needed to make a successful transition from institutionalization to further education or employment; and
• To operate programs in local schools, including schools operated or funded by the Bureau of Indian Education for children and youth returning from correctional facilities and programs that may serve at-risk children and youth.

Intended beneficiaries are school systems with high numbers or percentages of children and youth residing in locally-operated (including county-operated) correctional facilities for children and youth. 

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.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is a federal K–12 education law. ESSA was signed into law in 2015, replacing No Child Left Behind, and reauthorizing the original Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), which was signed into law in 1965 by President Lyndon Baines Johnson.

ESSA requires every state to measure performance in reading, math, and science. Every school must inform parents about their standards and their results. 

ESSA requires every state to provide parents important information on test performance in reading, math, and science. The report cards must also provide data on graduation rates, suspensions, absenteeism, teacher qualifications, and many other areas. Texas provides maximum transparency for parents and publicly shares performance information on TXschools.gov and in data reports on the Performance Reporting pages.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant includes: 1) Title I, Part A Grants; 2) Title I, Part C Grants; 3) Title I, Part D, Subpart 1 Grants; 4) Title I, Part D, Subpart 2 Grants; 5) Title II, Part A Grants; 6) Title III, Part A ELA Grants; 7) Title III, Part A Immigrant Grants; and 8) Title IV, Part A, Subpart 1 Grants.

Title II, Part A

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

The intent and purpose of the Title II, Part A, program is to provide resources to school systems to do the following:

• Increase student achievement consistent with the challenging State academic standards;
• Improve the quality and effectiveness of teachers, principals, and other school leaders;
• Increase the number of teachers, principals, and other school leaders who are effective in improving student academic achievement in schools; and
• Provide low-income and minority students greater access to effective teachers, principals, and other school leaders

The AFS Short Films Grant, established by the Austin Film Society, supports Texas filmmakers with up to $10,000 for production or post-production of short films under 40 minutes. Since 1996, over $2.8 million has been awarded to more than 550 artists, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. This grant fosters creativity and accessibility in filmmaking, ensuring talented Texas artists have the necessary resources to thrive in their home state.

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.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is a federal K–12 education law. ESSA was signed into law in 2015, replacing No Child Left Behind, and reauthorizing the original Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), which was signed into law in 1965 by President Lyndon Baines Johnson.

ESSA requires every state to measure performance in reading, math, and science. Every school must inform parents about their standards and their results. 

ESSA requires every state to provide parents important information on test performance in reading, math, and science. The report cards must also provide data on graduation rates, suspensions, absenteeism, teacher qualifications, and many other areas. Texas provides maximum transparency for parents and publicly shares performance information on TXschools.gov and in data reports on the Performance Reporting pages.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant includes: 1) Title I, Part A Grants; 2) Title I, Part C Grants; 3) Title I, Part D, Subpart 1 Grants; 4) Title I, Part D, Subpart 2 Grants; 5) Title II, Part A Grants; 6) Title III, Part A ELA Grants; 7) Title III, Part A Immigrant Grants; and 8) Title IV, Part A, Subpart 1 Grants.

Title III, Part A ELA

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

Title III, Part A, provides supplemental resources to school systems to help ensure that children who are English learners (EL)/emergent bilingual (EB) students, including immigrant students, attain English proficiency at high levels in academic subjects and can meet the same challenging State academic standards that all children are expected to meet.

Intended beneficiaries are English learners, including immigrant children and youth. 

The 2025-2026 Title IV, Part A ESC Capacity Building State Initiative, funded by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance educational outcomes across Texas. This grant focuses on providing training and resources to 20 Education Service Centers (ESCs) to improve well-rounded education, promote safe and healthy students, and leverage technology effectively. The initiative seeks to strengthen the capacity of school systems statewide, ensuring all students receive quality educational support.

The XENO PRIZE for Performance Arts, awarded by Franklin Furnace, supports early-career LGBTQ+-identifying performance artists creating new work in 26 states with restrictive gender-affirming laws. This annual prize, established in 2023, offers $5000 to a selected recipient from proposals submitted for the Franklin Furnace FUND for Performance Art. The deadline for submissions is April 1, 2025, encouraging innovative voices in the contemporary performance art landscape.

The PFE Council Statewide Training Grant, offered by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance parent and family engagement across educational systems in Texas. This initiative focuses on building capacity for effective collaboration among educational service centers and school systems, ensuring meaningful engagement of families in alignment with ESSA requirements. Through statewide training and strategic guidance, the grant supports the development of evidence-based practices that empower parents and community stakeholders to actively participate in the educational process.

The Texas Education Agency is launching the 2025-2026 Leadership Academy, which includes Specialized Leadership Coaching Teams. This initiative aims to develop aspiring school system leaders through effective programming grounded in research-based practices. Utilizing the Center for Effective Districts, the agency will provide logistical and operational support to enhance educational outcomes across Texas. This grant will play a crucial role in building leadership capacity within schools, fostering improved educational environments for students.

The 2025-2026 Texas Migrant Interstate Program (TMIP) aims to ensure migratory children achieve the same educational standards as their peers. This program focuses on improving graduation rates and providing essential support to migrant education programs, fostering collaboration between Texas and other states. By facilitating the exchange of critical student information, TMIP enhances educational opportunities for Texas-based migrant students, ensuring they receive the assistance necessary to succeed academically.

The Mosaic Company Foundation Community Investment Grant aims to create a lasting impact in communities by supporting initiatives in three key areas: Food, Water, and Local Community. With an annual investment of approximately $12 million, the foundation addresses food security, promotes water conservation, and enhances community sustainability. Eligible applicants must be recognized charitable organizations, primarily in North America, committed to improving quality of life through innovative solutions and partnerships.

The 2025-2026 Food Security, School Readiness, and Recovery Pilot Grant Program, Year 3, administered by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance educational outcomes through targeted funding. This initiative supports Save the Children in implementing food security measures, kindergarten transition programs, and afterschool initiatives for children up to sixth grade, while also addressing pandemic-related learning losses. By focusing on holistic support, the program seeks to foster a healthier, more prepared generation of students.

James Avery Corporate Grants support 501(c)(3) organizations located within 50 miles of a James Avery retail or corporate location. The foundation prioritizes projects that enrich community life, focusing on arts, veteran services, and wellness. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $25,000, with applications accepted once per year. Organizations must demonstrate community impact, effective management, and provide necessary documentation for eligibility. Note that certain types of funding, such as for individuals or for-profit organizations, are excluded.

The James Avery Fundraising Support provides limited cash contributions, sponsorship of special events, and in-kind support to organizations enriching community life within 50 miles of a James Avery retail location. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on arts, community improvement, veteran support, and wellness. Requests must be made at least 60 days prior to events, and organizations can receive support only once per year.

The 2025-2026 ESC Texas Strategic Leadership (TSL) Funding Grant, offered by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance public education by certifying ESC teams as TSL Lead Coaches and TSL Performance Management Data Specialists. This grant is designed for teams that complete a comprehensive year-long training program, contributing to the overall improvement of educational outcomes in Texas.

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.

The Abilene Geological Society Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, aims to support students from the Big Country pursuing degrees in geology, earth science, hydrology, or environmental science. Established to foster scientific education in West Central Texas, this scholarship is designed for high school graduates ranked in the top 50% of their class. With over 150 scholarship funds, the Community Foundation of Abilene empowers local students to achieve their college education dreams.

The Abilene Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, aims to support healthcare professionals in enhancing their skills and obtaining relevant degrees. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to addressing educational needs within the community. Preference is given to Abilene Regional Employees who possess a certification in the healthcare field. The fund exemplifies a collaborative effort to foster a well-trained healthcare workforce in Abilene.

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 West Texas Paralegal Association Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of West Texas, aims to support students pursuing an associate's degree in Paralegal Studies at South Plains College. This scholarship is available to legal residents from specific counties who are enrolled in at least 6 credit hours in the program. The foundation awards over 100 scholarships annually, fostering educational opportunities and community development.

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. 

Texas 501(c)(3) human services nonprofits can seek funding for charitable programs, with typical awards of US $5,000 - US $10,000. The Milton Hicks Wood & Helen Gibbs Wood Charitable Trust provides a small number of grants annually, and education-focused organizations serving teachers’ continuing education may be eligible if they qualify as human services providers.

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.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is a federal K–12 education law. ESSA was signed into law in 2015, replacing No Child Left Behind, and reauthorizing the original Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), which was signed into law in 1965 by President Lyndon Baines Johnson.

ESSA requires every state to measure performance in reading, math, and science. Every school must inform parents about their standards and their results. 

ESSA requires every state to provide parents important information on test performance in reading, math, and science. The report cards must also provide data on graduation rates, suspensions, absenteeism, teacher qualifications, and many other areas. Texas provides maximum transparency for parents and publicly shares performance information on TXschools.gov and in data reports on the Performance Reporting pages.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant includes: 1) Title I, Part A Grants; 2) Title I, Part C Grants; 3) Title I, Part D, Subpart 1 Grants; 4) Title I, Part D, Subpart 2 Grants; 5) Title II, Part A Grants; 6) Title III, Part A ELA Grants; 7) Title III, Part A Immigrant Grants; and 8) Title IV, Part A, Subpart 1 Grants.

Title III, Part A Immigrant

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

Title III, Part A - Immigrant, provides supplemental funds to school systems who are experiencing substantial increases in immigrant students for activities that provide enhanced instructional opportunities for immigrant students.

Intended beneficiaries are immigrant children and youth.

CommonSpirit Health offers the Community Health Improvement Grant to enhance health equity and service systems for underserved populations. Through collaborative efforts with 501(c)(3) organizations, this initiative provides financial support for essential health projects. Grant amounts range from $19,500 for small grants to $150,000 for standard grants, varying by hospital. Participating hospitals include those under Catholic Health Initiatives and Dignity Health, aimed at addressing significant community health needs.

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. 

The Florence Foundation Grants support educational, scientific, and charitable initiatives, focusing on Texas-based 501(c)(3) organizations, especially in Dallas County. Established in 1956, the foundation has awarded over $3 million to assist in various areas including public education, scientific research, and community welfare. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, with a preference for projects that address significant social issues and enhance community well-being.

The Minnie M. Jones Trust Grant, established in 1953, aims to enhance educational opportunities for underserved children in Texas. This private trust focuses on supporting organizations that provide quality education programming, with a preference for those serving youth in Denison and Grayson County. Grants are awarded for a duration of one year, emphasizing the importance of sustainable educational initiatives.