Best Professional Development Grants for Teachers in South Carolina

Grants from South Carolina Department of Education help South Carolina teacher development and training providers run Advanced Placement Teacher Institutes for public school teachers. Eligible applicants must propose College Board–aligned institutes that prepare newly assigned AP teachers with content knowledge, instructional strategies, and the required endorsement to teach AP courses in high schools.

Public, private, and charter schools in South Carolina can fund arts supplies, equipment, residencies, or teacher professional development that address COVID-related learning loss and promote arts integration. With a mission to strengthen arts education, South Carolina Arts Commission provides up to US $5,000 per school for materials, conferences, memberships, and arts-rich training projects.

South Carolina and North Carolina 501(c)(3) public charities offering teacher development and training or related education programs may be eligible for professional development support. With a mission to foster education, healthcare, human services, and Jewish values, Leon Levine Foundation provides funding to well-established nonprofits serving Carolinians with strong leadership and sustainable revenue.

The Opening Gates for Prospective Teachers Grant, established by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, aims to honor Dr. James Gates by funding electronic student memberships for prospective mathematics teachers from PreK-12. This initiative supports the council's mission to enhance mathematics education by providing resources for future educators. Eligible applicants include leaders of teacher preparation programs who are NCTM members and actively involved in certifying teacher candidates in mathematics or related fields.

Geoscience educators contributing to professional development and service within the National Association of Geoscience Teachers may be eligible for recognition through this distinguished service award, including those in South Carolina. The Robert Christman Distinguished Service Award honors long-term, outstanding service to NAGT at the national or section level, with recipients selected by the Executive Committee from member nominations.

South Carolina teacher development and training programs in geoscience education can access funding and promotional support via the National Association of Geoscience Teachers. NAGT sponsors long-term programs and single events such as courses, field trips, and meeting sessions that align with its mission, ethics policy, and code of conduct, with opportunities available across the U.S.

Geoscience educators involved with the Journal of Geoscience Education who contribute high-quality, timely peer reviews can receive US $500 in recognition, including those based in South Carolina. Grants from the National Association of Geoscience Teachers honor outstanding reviewers nominated by JGE authors or Editorial Board members for their exceptional service over the past year.

Geoscience educators publishing in the Journal of Geoscience Education can receive US $500 for outstanding scholarly papers that enhance student learning, advance geoscience education, or demonstrate broad societal impact. With a mission to promote excellence, National Association of Geoscience Teachers provides South Carolina teacher development and training professionals with recognition-based professional development support through this annual paper award.

South Carolina geoscience educators focused on teacher development can access recognition through the Neil Miner Award, honoring exceptional efforts to stimulate interest in the Earth sciences. Nominated individuals are evaluated by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers based on letters of support and a curriculum vitae, offering a national professional development distinction for outstanding teaching.

Geoscience departments and instructors in South Carolina can nominate undergraduate and graduate teaching assistants for recognition of outstanding teaching work. Focused on teacher development and training, the National Association of Geoscience Teachers invites nominations for its Outstanding Teaching Assistant Awards, which honor TAs’ instructional contributions and provide professional benefits such as association membership.

K–12 teachers and educators in South Carolina who teach significant earth science content can receive recognition and support for exceptional classroom work through the Outstanding Earth Science Teacher Award. Grants from National Association of Geoscience Teachers help professional development and teacher training in geoscience; eight national finalists are chosen from regional sections, with possible state-level honors.

South Carolina earth science educators and other geoscience teachers engaged in professional development around justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion may be eligible for the Excellence in JEDI Award. South Carolina teacher development and training professionals can access recognition and support through National Association of Geoscience Teachers, including a complimentary membership and opportunities to share their JEDI-focused work.

Individuals who write or edit Earth science materials of interest to teachers or the general public, including those in South Carolina, can be nominated for the James H. Shea Award from the National Association of Geoscience Teachers. NAGT members, including self-nominees, submit a detailed nomination letter highlighting exceptional Earth science writing or editing contributions.

Public schools offering Algebra 1 in Bishopville, South Carolina can receive in-kind support to implement PLTW’s Algebra 1 Advantage program and related teacher training. Project Lead The Way covers the 2026–2027 participation fee and one core training registration, helping K–12 educators strengthen STEM-focused math instruction and professional development; awards are valued at US $1,000.

The Slater Excellence in Teaching Award, offered by the Polk County Community Foundation, supports certified classroom teachers and media specialists in Polk County and Landrum. This program encourages professional growth by funding attendance at educational conferences and unique travel experiences related to their curriculum. The aim is to enhance classroom teaching through innovative learning opportunities. Eligible applicants must work directly with students and submit individual applications, ensuring impactful teaching practices in the local community.

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. 

The Professional Development Scholarship, offered by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, supports educators in enhancing their expertise in history, number theory, or discrete mathematics. This scholarship aids in completing coursework, developing classroom activities, and delivering professional presentations. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of three years of teaching experience and currently teach mathematics at the 6-12 grade levels. Projects must be completed by August 31 of the following year.

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 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.