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 Timeline
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.
Funding and Eligible Uses
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
Cybersecurity initiative funds can support curriculum, tools, and teacher training. Physical computing tools that build foundational computing knowledge qualify when connected to cybersecurity learning objectives.
Forward Education Tools That Qualify
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micro:bit Classroom Kits
Physical computing tools that build the foundational hardware-software knowledge underlying cybersecurity education. Students who understand how devices work are better prepared for cybersecurity coursework. -
MicroChat AI Literacy Kit
AI literacy curriculum covering data handling and digital ethics - both directly relevant to cybersecurity education. Helps students understand the AI systems they will need to protect and monitor. -
Coding for Good Kit
Applied coding curriculum with real-world problem-solving. Builds computational thinking skills that underpin cybersecurity analysis and response.
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.
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 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
Download the Forward Education Grant Guide
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