Grants

TEA administers grants primarily funded by two sources: federal funds and state funds. Federal grants are funded through legislation passed by the U.S. Congress, while state-funded grants are authorized by the Texas Legislature.
 
There are two types of grants:
  • Formula Grants (Entitlements) -  The authorizing statute determines eligibility. Only local educational agencies (LEAs), such as independent school districts and open-enrollment charter schools, are eligible to apply. TEA provides multiple resources to assist LEA's to navigate the grant process.
  • Discretionary Grants (Grant Opportunities) - The legislation authorizing the grant gives some freedom, or discretion, to the agency administering the grant. The legislation may define certain elements of the grant program, such as population to be served or services to be provided, while leaving the administering agency and the commissioner of education free to determine other elements, such as eligibility criteria or the amount to be awarded to grantees.