TEA: Texas K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative
Eligibility
Texas public school districts and charter schools can apply. Priority goes to programs that serve underrepresented populations and high-need areas. Check tea.texas.gov for specific eligibility requirements in the current cycle.
- Eligible: Texas public school districts and charter schools
- Priority: Underrepresented student populations and high-need communities
- Applications through TEA's grant management portal
- Connect with your regional ESC for application support
Program Goals
TEA's K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative supports schools building programs that prepare students for careers in cybersecurity and technology. The program recognizes Texas faces a significant workforce shortage in cybersecurity, and that K-12 schools play a key role in building the talent pipeline.
Funding supports curriculum, teacher training, and resources needed to launch cybersecurity pathways. Programs that integrate AI literacy, data privacy, and digital safety concepts are well-positioned.
Application and Distribution
The cybersecurity initiative runs on periodic funding cycles. Check tea.texas.gov for current solicitations. Connect with your regional ESC for support with the application process. ESCs have experience with TEA competitive grants and can help you build a strong proposal.
Grant Award Amount
Grant amounts vary by program scope. Eligible uses include curriculum materials, professional development for teachers, and hardware or software tools used in cybersecurity education. Programs integrating AI literacy, data privacy, and digital safety concepts are well-positioned for this funding.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- micro:bit Classroom Kits — Classroom sets of programmable microcontrollers for hands-on coding and physical computing. Qualifies as K-12 CS hardware; supports standards-aligned programming instruction across grade levels.
- MicroChat — AI-powered classroom learning tool that introduces students to artificial intelligence and machine learning concepts. Qualifies for AI literacy, educational technology, and computer science grant programs.
- Coding for Good Kit — Project-based coding curriculum connecting computer science to real-world community problems. Qualifies for CS education and digital literacy funding; builds computational thinking through authentic challenges.
Keep in Mind
Texas has a well-documented cybersecurity talent shortage. Frame your program as a pipeline builder - show how students who complete your program are prepared for cybersecurity certifications and career paths.
Cybersecurity at the K-12 level starts with understanding how computers and networks work. Physical computing and coding tools that build these foundations are a strong starting point for a cybersecurity pathway.
Texas ESCs have experience with TEA competitive grants and often have existing cybersecurity curriculum resources. Partnering with your ESC can strengthen your application and reduce the implementation burden.
Cybersecurity education in K-12 includes digital citizenship, online safety, and data privacy. MicroChat's AI ethics content aligns with this broader framing of cybersecurity for younger students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for TEA: Texas K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative in Texas?
Texas public school districts and charter schools can apply. Priority goes to programs that serve underrepresented populations and high-need areas. Check tea.texas.gov for specific eligibility requirements in the current cycle. Eligible: Texas public school districts and charter schools Priority: Underrepresented student populations and high-need communities Applications through TEA's grant management portal Connect with your regional ESC for application support
How much funding is available through TEA: Texas K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative?
Funding varies by cycle and applicant. Check the current program guidelines for up-to-date award amounts.
Can TEA: Texas K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative funds be used for STEM and coding tools?
Yes. TEA: Texas K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative funds can support hands-on STEM materials, physical computing kits, and coding curriculum when they align to the program's stated goals. Document alignment to program objectives before purchasing.
How do schools apply for TEA: Texas K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative?
The cybersecurity initiative runs on periodic funding cycles. Check tea.texas.gov for current solicitations. Connect with your regional ESC for support with the application process. ESCs have experience with TEA competitive grants and can help you build a strong proposal.
How can Forward Education help with TEA: Texas K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative funding?
Forward Education provides curriculum alignment documents, official pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support for Texas schools. Our STEM kits are purpose-built to meet the learning outcomes TEA: Texas K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative funds. Contact us before submitting your application.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals. We can help you connect our tools to your grant requirements.
- Curriculum alignment documents — TEKS, Common Core, and state standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing — classroom sets, bundles, and multi-site pricing
- Letters of support — documentation for grant applications
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence — ready-to-use program outlines
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