TEA: T-STEM Planning and Implementation Grant
Eligibility
Texas public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools can apply. Schools must demonstrate a clear vision for a STEM academy model and a plan for sustainability. Applications are accepted during periodic open cycles announced on the TEA portal.
- Eligible: Texas public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools
- Focus: Schools building or expanding dedicated STEM academy pathways
- Applications during periodic TEA solicitation cycles
- Schools must show a sustainability plan beyond the grant period
Program Goals
TEA's T-STEM Planning and Implementation Grant supports schools in developing or expanding dedicated STEM academies and pathways. The program helps schools build the infrastructure, curriculum, and teacher capacity needed to offer rigorous STEM education from middle through high school.
T-STEM schools are expected to implement a coherent STEM pathway with project-based learning, real-world connections, and strong postsecondary alignment. TEA's STEM academy designation goes with this grant for high-performing schools.
Application and Distribution
T-STEM grants open on periodic cycles that are not always annual. Monitor tea.texas.gov closely for open solicitations. When a cycle opens, review the T-STEM academy designation requirements to understand what TEA expects from participating schools.
Grant Award Amount
Grant amounts vary by cycle and school size. Funds can be used for curriculum development, equipment and technology purchases, makerspace setup, and professional development for teachers. Schools building physical computing labs or integrated STEM spaces can use T-STEM funds to equip classrooms.
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 Climate Kit — Hands-on curriculum kit teaching climate science, environmental data collection, and coding-based problem-solving. Aligns with STEM and environmental literacy grants; cross-curricular science and CS integration.
Keep in Mind
T-STEM grants are linked to the TEA academy designation program. Read the full requirements before applying so you understand what a T-STEM school must look like and whether your school is ready to commit.
TEA wants to see a coherent STEM sequence from grade 6 through graduation. Show how physical computing in 6th grade connects to advanced CS courses in 11th and 12th grade.
T-STEM schools are expected to have connections to community colleges and universities. Show how your STEM pathway leads to college credit, dual enrollment, or workforce certifications.
T-STEM grants can fund physical space improvements. If you are building a dedicated STEM lab or makerspace, include that in your budget alongside equipment and curriculum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for TEA: T-STEM Planning and Implementation Grant in Texas?
Texas public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools can apply. Schools must demonstrate a clear vision for a STEM academy model and a plan for sustainability. Applications are accepted during periodic open cycles announced on the TEA portal. Eligible: Texas public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools Focus: Schools building or expanding dedicated STEM academy pathways Applications during periodic TEA solicitation cycles Schools must show a sustainability plan beyond
How much funding is available through TEA: T-STEM Planning and Implementation Grant?
Funding varies by cycle and applicant. Check the current program guidelines for up-to-date award amounts.
Can TEA: T-STEM Planning and Implementation Grant funds be used for STEM and coding tools?
Yes. TEA: T-STEM Planning and Implementation Grant 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: T-STEM Planning and Implementation Grant?
T-STEM grants open on periodic cycles that are not always annual. Monitor tea.texas.gov closely for open solicitations. When a cycle opens, review the T-STEM academy designation requirements to understand what TEA expects from participating schools.
How can Forward Education help with TEA: T-STEM Planning and Implementation Grant 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: T-STEM Planning and Implementation Grant 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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