Best Professional Development Grants for Teachers in Georgia

Paraprofessionals in Georgia pursuing teacher certification through the GaTAPP program can receive up to US $5,000 in reimbursement support. With a mission to strengthen the educator pipeline, Georgia Department of Education provides funding to help local educational agencies and GNETS programs develop certified teachers through this Paraprofessional to Teacher Reimbursement Grant, Round 4.

Georgia K-12 public school districts, charter schools, LEA consortia, and LEA–professional learning partnerships can apply for up to US $15,000 to fund computer science teacher certification, endorsements, and professional development. Georgia Department of Education prioritizes applicants with CS implementation plans and those serving federally identified, high-poverty, or rural schools.

Georgia school districts (LEAs) already receiving Perkins V funding can use the Perkins V Plus Reserve Grant to supplement career and technical education resources in Georgia, including teacher development and training. Administered by the Georgia Department of Education, awards up to US $25,000 support rural areas, high-CTE-enrollment schools, and programs addressing performance gaps.

Georgia public schools and classroom teachers seeking support for innovative projects to improve student learning can access funding through the Georgia Department of Education’s Georgia Foundation for Public Education. Grants of US $500 - US $2,500 help bring creative ideas to life, with applications accepted on a rolling basis and awards announced quarterly.

The GaMTSS Cohort 2026 initiative by the Georgia Department of Education aims to enhance educational outcomes for Georgia's 1.7 million public school students. This three-year program provides selected districts with dedicated GaMTSS Program Specialists for targeted coaching and technical assistance. It focuses on implementing a comprehensive tiered system of supports while offering statewide professional development opportunities. The initiative emphasizes student preparedness for life beyond academics, ensuring all schools have the resources necessary for quality education.

Georgia school districts and LEAs supporting teacher professional development in computer science education in Georgia can apply for funding to join professional organizations, attend CS-focused conferences, and purchase physical computing devices with training. The Georgia Department of Education offers up to US $10,000 per district from a total pool of US $200,000 for FY25.

Georgia 501(c)(3) organizations offering teacher development and training can access funding through Georgia Power Foundation to strengthen professional learning and related education initiatives. Grants up to US $25,000 support programs that improve quality of life for Georgia residents, so education nonprofits and school-support organizations focused on staff development may be eligible.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Georgia, Alabama, or Florida running education programs for children and young adults can seek project support to improve learning outcomes and student self-esteem. Malone Family Foundation favors innovative, high-impact, well-managed initiatives with clear goals, realistic budgets, and trackable results, including professional development and training for teachers.

Georgia Department of Natural Resources

The Department of Natural Resources has statewide responsibilities for the management and conservation of Georgia’s natural and cultural resources. Most of this work is conducted by DNR’s five operating divisions that have statutory authority over the management and protection of Georgia’s natural and cultural resources. The Divisions also provide technical assistance, education and outreach and other programming relevant to their individual missions.

Conservation Teacher of the Year Grant

Through education, research and management, DNR's Wildlife Conservation Section safeguards Georgia's native diversity of wild animals, plants and habitats while also encouraging outdoor enjoyment. We are pleased to offer a $1,000 grant to an elementary school teacher (K–5, including science specialists) who demonstrates exceptional energy and innovation in teaching life sciences.

Prospective teachers must use Georgia’s native animals, plants and habitats as the context for covering Georgia Standards of Excellence. Although this grant emphasizes life science, cross-curricular teaching is highly encouraged. Preference will be given to teachers who demonstrate creativity in project design and take learning outside, as well as projects that could not be funded otherwise.

Georgia 501(c)(3) colleges, universities, and other higher education institutions with paid full-time staff and budgets over $500,000 can seek one-time project funding to expand access and innovation in higher education. The Robert W. Woodruff Foundation generally prioritizes organizations located and operating in metro Atlanta, with occasional support for significant initiatives elsewhere in the state.

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.

Geoscience educators publishing in the Journal of Geoscience Education can receive recognition and US $500 for outstanding scholarship that advances geoscience teaching and student learning. With a mission to promote excellence in Earth education, National Association of Geoscience Teachers provides Georgia teacher development and training professionals with an award for innovative, high-impact papers, nominated by readers, authors, or Editorial Board members.

Georgia geoscience educators focused on teacher development and training can access recognition and support through the Neil Miner Award, honoring exceptional efforts to stimulate interest in Earth science. NAGT members nominate outstanding teachers by submitting a nomination letter, up to four tailored support letters, and the nominee’s curriculum vitae.

Focused on geoscience education, the National Association of Geoscience Teachers invites Georgia instructors to nominate outstanding undergraduate or graduate teaching assistants for national recognition. Awards honor TAs’ instructional contributions and provide a one-year NAGT membership with access to the Journal of Geoscience Education and In The Trenches, supporting ongoing professional development for teaching-focused students.

The Outstanding Earth Science Teacher (OEST) Award recognizes exceptional K-12 educators for their contributions to Earth Science education. Established in 1971 by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers, the award aims to stimulate interest in Earth Sciences among students. Eight national finalists are chosen annually, ensuring broad recognition and encouraging teaching excellence. Nominees can apply themselves or be nominated by colleagues, allowing for two awards in an educator's career to honor both early and late career achievements.

The Excellence in JEDI Award, presented by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT), honors individuals who promote justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) in geoscience education. This prestigious award recognizes significant contributions, including mentorship and advocacy for marginalized groups. Awardees receive a one-year NAGT membership and an opportunity to present their work at a DEI event. Nominations are accepted online, and selections are made by the NAGT DEI Committee.

The James H. Shea Award, presented annually by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT), recognizes outstanding contributions in writing and editing Earth science materials aimed at the public and educators. Established in 1991, this prestigious award honors the legacy of James H. Shea, a dedicated advocate for quality geoscience education. Nominations require a detailed letter outlining the nominee's exceptional contributions, reinforcing NAGT's commitment to fostering excellence in Earth science education.

The Willson Center Special Funding Request provides limited financial support for University of Georgia faculty, allowing one request per academic year. The funding, capped at $500, can be used for various purposes including conference travel, event funding, and book subventions. This initiative aims to enhance academic contributions by supporting essential activities outside the standard grant programs, emphasizing the importance of faculty research and engagement.

Benefitting people in the places making the AI future possible

The Future is for Everyone Fund

Meta is investing directly in education, community enhancement, workforce development and sustainability projects in locations where we have a data center in the United States.

The AI future we are building is for everyone. That starts with making sure everyone in the places that are home to a Meta data center feel the benefits in their communities. We want students to have bright futures, small businesses to flourish and communities to be prosperous.

Our commitment to the communities we call home.

The Future is for Everyone Fund supports investments and programs that address local community priorities in the United States, where we have a Meta data center:

We invest in the people and shared spaces that help a community thrive. That includes the parks, trails, and gathering places where neighbors come together, the technology and access that keep them connected, and first responders - like police officers, firefighters, and paramedics — who keep our communities safe.

We support the people and organizations that power local economies - helping workers gain the skills, certifications, and hands-on experience the modern economy rewards, and backing initiatives that create jobs and give a community its character.

We fund the programs, spaces, and tools that help learners of every age discover what they're capable of - from early literacy and the arts to hands-on science, technology, and problem-solving - and we equip the educators who make it happen with the resources to bring their most ambitious lessons to life.

We invest in the long-term health of the land, water, and wildlife that make our communities home - supporting things like habitat restoration and resource conservation that connects people to the natural world.

What is the Future is for Everyone Fund?

The Future is for Everyone Fund is Meta’s $1 billion commitment to invest directly in the U.S. communities that are home to a Meta data center. The Fund supports local schools, nonprofits, and community organizations and is organized into four focus areas that reflect local priorities: Community Enhancement, Economic Vitality, Education, and Sustainability. It builds on the over $70 million in grant funding we’ve provided to our data center communities since 2011.

The Lowell Teachers Scholarships, offered by Harvard University, allow middle and high school teachers to enroll in one Extension School course per term at half the tuition cost. This initiative promotes professional development by making Harvard's rigorous academic programs accessible to educators. Limited scholarships are available, encouraging early application. Note that these scholarships cannot be used for summer courses or combined with other financial aid, ensuring focused support for teachers dedicated to enhancing their skills.

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.

The BIE Internship Funding for STEM Students, offered by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, provides financial assistance to Native students for approved internships related to STEM. This initiative helps cover costs such as travel, living expenses, and daily commuting, facilitating valuable professional experiences. By supporting these students, the program aims to enhance Native representation in STEM fields and empower future leaders within their communities, contributing positively to society's growth and diversity.

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Katherine K. Greiner Scholarship ($3,000) 

This renewable scholarship was established to support students who plan to become elementary, middle or high school teachers. 

Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) 

Founded in 1967, the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) is a national community of academic leaders committed to developing an accomplished family medicine workforce, prepared to serve as the foundation of America’s health care system. Our members include physicians, PAs, nurse practitioners, behavioral health specialists, researchers, pharmacists, nurses and other health care professionals, health system executives, administrators, coordinators, fellows, residents, students, and others involved in the education of family physicians. 

STFM Excellence in Education Award

Designed to honor outstanding teachers, the STFM Excellence in Education Award recognizes an STFM member who has demonstrated excellence in teaching, curriculum development, mentoring, research, or leadership in education at regional or national levels. Nominees must have sustained involvement in family medicine education.

The selection is made by the STFM Nominations Committee and approved by the STFM Board of Directors. Nominations are ranked based on the:

• Contributions recognized at the home institution
• Regional/national impact of nominee's activities
• Sustained involvement in family medicine education

Nominees must be STFM members. Members of the Nominations Committee are not eligible to receive the award while serving on the Committee.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Good Teachers Count Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Joseph and Marla Dernay Future Teacher Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.