Charles Butt Scholarship for Aspiring Teachers

Scholarship Sponsored by Charles Butt Foundation

Overview

The Charles Butt Foundation seeks out and pilots high-potential strategies to strengthen public education and advocates for the policies and conditions needed to expand proven solutions for all Texas students. Through this portal you may apply to the Charles Butt Scholarship for Aspiring Teachers, a cornerstone of the Raising Texas Teachers initiative.

Program summary

- Purpose: To recruit and support future public school teachers in Texas by providing financial assistance, professional learning, mentoring, and entry into a statewide peer network.
- Award: Recipients receive either $8,000 or $10,000 per year, plus ongoing professional development, mentorship from practicing public school educators, and membership in a statewide community of aspiring teachers.
- Eligible candidates: Students pursuing initial teacher certification within one of the selected university-based teacher preparation programs (there are 27 partner programs across the state; specific universities and program deadlines are listed below on the portal).
- Commitment requirement: Scholarships are reserved for students who plan to teach in the Texas public school system in either a Title I campus or in a subject area experiencing a shortage (math, science, bilingual education, or special education).

Important dates and application steps

- Application opening: The Charles Butt Scholarship application opens in October 2025.
- Deadlines: Submission deadlines vary by partner program and are listed for each university on this site.
- Admissions note: If you are not already enrolled in the university program(s) through which you are applying for the scholarship, you must apply to those university programs through their regular admissions processes. The Charles Butt Scholarship application does not substitute for university admission.
- Selection process: Scholarships are awarded annually through the 27 university-based teacher preparation programs. The competitive selection process includes an application, a university pre-screening step, and an individual interview.

Selection criteria — Knowledge, skills, and values

Applicants are assessed against the following competencies and commitments:

- Strong written communication
- Strong oral communication
- Ability to collaborate effectively
- Demonstrated leadership
- Service-oriented mindset/altruism
- Genuine passion for education
- Commitment to equity
- Belief in the transformative power of teaching
- Academic achievement
- Persistence and a commitment to ongoing learning

For full program details, the list of participating universities, and specific program deadlines, refer to the university table below on the portal.