Best Professional Development Grants for Teachers in Minnesota

Minnesota teacher development and training programs that integrate visual arts can access funding through Windgate Charitable Trust to support K–12 art-integrated learning and professional development. Eligible U.S. nonprofits, colleges, universities, and arts organizations may seek support for contemporary craft and visual arts residencies, programming, scholarships, and related materials or equipment.

K–12 schools, higher education institutions, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Minnesota can apply for grants supporting education equity, teacher development, and youth-focused programs. Grants from Ciresi Walburn Foundation help expand high-performing schools, diversify the educator workforce, strengthen science-based literacy and tutoring, and engage families, which may include professional development initiatives for teachers.

Minnesota school districts, charter schools, tribally controlled schools, cooperative units, and coalitions of teachers can use this grant to develop, sustain, or expand teacher mentorship programs for early-career educators. Minnesota Department of Education funding supports efforts to improve teacher retention and effectiveness, with particular attention to teachers from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.

Minnesota schools, nonprofits, and agencies serving children and youth can seek funding for programs that build emotional safety, address trauma, and strengthen family relationships. Grants from Sauer Family Foundation help Minnesota teacher development and training efforts in trauma-responsive practices and social-emotional learning, as well as related child welfare and mental health initiatives.

Minnesota education support professionals seeking professional recognition and development can access this award for honorarium support and conference travel. Minnesota school staff can access funding through Education Minnesota’s Education Support Professional of the Year program, which provides a US $1,200 honorarium, a tablet, and an expense-paid trip to the NEA ESP National Conference.

Education Minnesota members in Minnesota who have shown exceptional union leadership and commitment to public education can be nominated for the Peterson-Schaubach Outstanding Leadership Award. This annual honor recognizes educators advancing teacher development, academic success, workers’ rights, and racial and social justice within Education Minnesota and its locals, with nominations submitted by Governing Board members.

Minnesota school districts, charter schools, tribally controlled schools, intermediate districts, and cooperative units can receive up to US $200,000 to develop and implement professional learning plans that train staff in nonexclusionary discipline practices. Minnesota Department of Education provides Minnesota teacher development and training programs with funding to help keep students in classrooms while maintaining respect, trust, and attention.

Minnesota preK–12 and adult education teachers seeking professional recognition for their work may be eligible for this statewide Teacher of the Year honor, which highlights excellence in classroom teaching and development. Education Minnesota’s award celebrates outstanding educators, with nominees required to hold a Minnesota teaching license and meet specific experience and teaching-time criteria.

Minnesota K–12 teachers who are Education Minnesota members pursuing National Board Certification can receive professional development funding for certification components. Education Minnesota Foundation provides Minnesota educators with scholarships up to US $1,000 per applicant to offset National Board Certification costs, with preference for first-time candidates but open to those maintaining certification.

Graduate student instructors in Minnesota who are master’s or doctoral students at the University of Minnesota can be nominated for the MAGS Excellence in Teaching Award, which provides US $500 in recognition of outstanding teaching and mentoring. This award supports professional development for graduate-level teachers preparing for future faculty roles.

Minnesota school districts, charter schools, and similar education stakeholders can access funding to develop or expand concurrent enrollment “Introduction to Teaching” or “Introduction to Education” courses in Minnesota. Grants from Minnesota Department of Education support dual-credit offerings that encourage secondary students, especially American Indian students and students of color, to pursue teaching careers and strengthen the future educator pipeline.

With a mission to support educator development, the Minnesota Department of Education provides Minnesota school districts, charter schools, intermediate districts, and cooperatives with funding to build Grow Your Own programs for adults of color and American Indian adults seeking initial teaching licenses. Awards up to US $750,000 mainly fund tuition scholarships or stipends through approved teacher preparation partners.

Nonprofit organizations advancing education policy and economic mobility for young people in Minnesota and the Great Lakes region can apply for grants supporting research, policy development, advocacy, and implementation. The Joyce Foundation backs work on effective educators, college and career readiness, and post-secondary success, including teacher pipeline and staffing models that may strengthen professional development efforts.

Minnesota school districts, charter schools, intermediate districts, and cooperatives in Minnesota can access funding through the Minnesota Department of Education to develop Grow Your Own pathways for secondary students interested in teaching. Grants up to Up to US $500,000 support future teacher clubs, dual-enrollment intro-to-teaching courses, wrap-around supports, and scholarships for students of color and American Indian students.

Grants help Minnesota school districts, charters, and tribal schools develop and implement grades 5–12 ethnic studies courses, supporting teacher development and training. Administered by the Minnesota Department of Education, this program offers up to US $50,000 for inter-district collaborations, district-level initiatives, or school-level educator teams building community-centered ethnic studies curricula.

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.

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 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.

K–12 teachers and educators in Minnesota 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 earth science and teacher development efforts by honoring up to eight national finalists and additional state or provincial awardees each year.

The Minneapolis Educator Leadership Awards (MELA) honor dedicated educators in Title I Minneapolis Public Schools. Recognizing their impactful work, MELA allows peers, students, and parents to nominate deserving educators. Finalists, selected by a committee, receive funding up to $10,000, aimed at enhancing their school's environment. This initiative not only elevates the profession but also empowers educators to implement meaningful changes within their communities, fostering a culture of appreciation and support for teaching excellence.

About AWS

We Move Welding Forward

Founded in 1919, the American Welding Society is a nonprofit organization with a global mission: to advance the science, technology, and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes worldwide, including brazing, soldering, and thermal spraying.

By fostering knowledge, embracing change, and providing real-world opportunities through scholarships, fellowships, and workforce development, AWS provides the tools to help members succeed—and to inspire future generations of welding professionals.

Education / Meritorious / Service Awards

The Educational/Meritorious/Service awards recognize individuals who have made notable contributions to the welding industry. From educators who have advanced welding knowledge to those who've exhibited outstanding service, these awards celebrate dedication, expertise, and the advancement of welding as both an art and a science.

Private Sector Instructor Membership Award

This award was established by the AWS Board of Directors as a means of honoring educators in the welding community teaching in private facilities. These individuals, in the opinion of the AWS Education Committee, have advanced the knowledge of welding to their students through apprenticeship programs, internal corporate training programs, and similar nonpublic educational activities.

This award is recognized at the National, District and Section levels. The nominee is selected at least 12 months in advance of FABTECH. Selections are made during the annual District Conference meetings for all three levels. District and Section level recognitions are automatic but National level nominee information is submitted to the AWS Education Committee for final selection.

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.

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.