Best Professional Development Grants for Teachers in Washington

The Nashman Faculty Development Grants at George Washington University aim to enhance community engaged scholarship through funding for course development, faculty engagement, and research initiatives. These grants support professional development that fosters partnerships between faculty and the community, encouraging innovative projects that create public benefits. With funding up to $2,000, the initiative invites applications from full-time and long-term part-time faculty, prioritizing collaborations with local organizations.

The Nashman Faculty Development Grants at George Washington University aim to enhance community engaged scholarship through innovative courses and research. These grants support faculty in developing new initiatives that benefit the community, including participatory research, professional development, and strategic planning for academic departments. Faculty involvement with local organizations is prioritized, fostering collaboration and maximizing educational impact. Funding typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000, enabling the growth of impactful projects that strengthen community ties and student learning.

The Nashman Faculty Development Grants at George Washington University aim to foster community engaged scholarship by funding innovative courses, research, and assessment initiatives. These grants support faculty in their efforts to collaborate with community partners, enhancing the impact of their work. With funding up to $2,000, priority is given to junior faculty and projects that involve Washington, DC organizations. This initiative promotes the development of engaged scholarship that benefits both the academic community and society.

The Nashman Faculty Development Grants at George Washington University aim to support faculty in developing community engaged scholarship initiatives. These grants, which can provide up to $5,000, encourage the creation of new courses, research projects, and professional development activities that foster collaboration between the university and community partners. Faculty participation is key, with a preference for projects aligned with local organizations to enhance community outcomes and scholarly work.

The Nashman Faculty Development Grants at George Washington University support faculty in developing community-engaged scholarship initiatives. These grants focus on courses, research, and creative activities that foster collaboration with local communities to address significant social issues. With funding up to $5,000, projects may include course development, participatory research, and professional development. The initiative emphasizes partnerships with regional organizations, aiming for sustainable community impact through equitable research and engagement.

The Nashman Faculty Development Grants at George Washington University support the creation of community engaged scholarship courses, research, and professional development initiatives. The program is aimed at enhancing faculty engagement with community partners through innovative teaching and research methods. Grants of up to $2,000 are available for course redesigns that incorporate service-learning or participatory research, promoting collaboration and impact in the Washington, D.C. region.

The Outstanding Teaching Assistant Awards, presented by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT), honor exemplary teaching assistants in geoscience education. With up to 30 awards given annually, both undergraduate and graduate TAs are eligible. Winners receive a one-year NAGT membership, including a subscription to the Journal of Geoscience Education. This award aims to recognize the contributions of TAs in enhancing Earth education, regardless of their formal titles.

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 Virgie Robinson Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Three Rivers Community Foundation, provides financial support to alumni of the Pasco School District and educators at Virgie Robinson Elementary School. This scholarship honors Virgie Robinson, a dedicated employee of the Pasco School District, ensuring that her legacy continues to benefit the community by empowering students and supporting educational excellence.

The Fairview Foundation Mini Grants support educators in the Fairview School District by funding innovative and collaborative classroom projects. Established in 2009, the foundation aims to enhance learning experiences through grants that align with state and national educational initiatives. With an all-volunteer Board of Directors, the foundation is dedicated to fostering creativity and high learning standards among teachers and students alike.

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.

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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. 

The Two-Year College Biology Teaching Award, sponsored by the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT), recognizes outstanding biology educators in two-year colleges who implement innovative teaching techniques. This award highlights the importance of culturally responsive pedagogies that foster equity and inclusion in various learning environments. Recipients receive a $500 travel honorarium, a recognition plaque, and one year of complimentary NABT membership, supporting their professional development and commitment to enhancing biology education.

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.

The Ignite Leadership Program, organized by the Society of Women Engineers, empowers early-career women engineers to enhance their leadership skills. Participants will assess their strengths, identify growth opportunities, and create personalized leadership development plans. This virtual program runs from September to December 2025, featuring group discussions and peer coaching. Its goal is to broaden the leadership pipeline within SWE, preparing the next generation of women leaders in engineering and technology.

The Music Teachers of Excellence (MToE) Award, managed by the CMA Foundation, recognizes outstanding public-school music educators. This prestigious award, with a $5,000 prize, aims to support teachers who inspire students and enrich their communities through music education. The application will open on September 3, 2025, allowing full-time music teachers with at least four years of experience to showcase their commitment and impact in the field. Stay tuned for more details!

The Helen M. Heitmann Young Scholar Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors young professionals who have made significant contributions to research in curriculum and instruction within health and physical education. Eligible candidates must be current SHAPE America members and have 3 to 6 years of experience post-doctorate. This award emphasizes active involvement and scholarship in the field, encouraging innovative research that enhances educational practices for preK-12 students.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

The Curriculum and Instruction Honor Award, presented by SHAPE America, recognizes outstanding contributions to health and physical education curriculum research. This prestigious award highlights the importance of effective instructional practices that prepare students for active and healthy lives. Award recipients are selected based on their scholarship in health education and physical education, demonstrating commitment to excellence since the organization's founding in 1885. SHAPE America advocates for quality education and promotes the well-being of preK-12 students across the United States.

The Nila Banton Smith Teacher as Researcher Grant, offered by the International Literacy Association, provides $2,000 biennially to pre-K–12 teachers conducting research in literacy instruction. This grant supports educators who demonstrate exceptional leadership in integrating theory and practice. Applicants must be ILA members in good standing and can apply for multiple grants, but can only accept one research award per year. This initiative emphasizes equitable access to literacy as a fundamental right.

The K–12 Educators Grants in American Music, offered by the American Musicological Society, provides $500 awards to K-12 educators with an interest in American music to attend the Teaching Music History Conference. This grant supports educators in engaging with historical pedagogy through workshops and networking opportunities. Participants will explore American music's significance while developing actionable lesson plans, fostering connections among educators and researchers committed to enhancing music education.

The Fall Teacher Fellowship by the Pulitzer Center offers educators an enriching opportunity to engage with global health stories through innovative reporting. This virtual program, open to teachers in grades four–12, emphasizes critical analysis of health inequities and civic engagement. Participants will collaborate with award-winning journalists, develop lesson plans, and receive a stipend, digital badge, and professional learning units upon completion. This fellowship aims to empower educators to connect their students' learning with global issues, fostering a deeper understanding of interconnected health challenges.