As schools across North Texas reopen this month, many teachers are preparing their classrooms with excitement and care. But for new teachers—especially those just starting their careers—the cost of supplies can be a big burden.
To help with this, a non-profit group is offering financial support through grants for first-year fine arts teachers in Title 1 schools.
A Dream Begins for New Theater Teacher
Christian Wilson, a fresh face at Adamson High School in the Dallas Independent School District, is starting his journey as a theater teacher. For him, this isn’t just a job—it’s a dream come true.
“This is my first year, so I’m going to get to meet new kids and a new environment. I’m just ready to hit the ground running,” Wilson shared with enthusiasm.
He’s already exploring the school’s theater space, imagining how he’ll guide students in acting, storytelling, and self-expression. “I want to create a space where children can be brave, can experiment, learn about human interaction and society, and become better people as a result,” he added.
$1,500 Grant Available for Fine Arts Teachers
To support teachers like Wilson, the Texas Cultural Trust, a non-profit organization, has launched a grant program. The grant offers $1,500 to first-year teachers who are teaching performing or visual arts—this includes theater, music, dance, or visual art.
Jenny Parry from the Texas Cultural Trust explained, “The grant is intended for teachers working in Title 1 schools, where funding can sometimes be limited.”
How the Grant Can Help
The grant money can be used in many creative and helpful ways. Teachers can use it to buy art supplies, musical instruments, or costumes, or even pay for field trips to theaters or art exhibitions. It can also cover the professional development of the teacher to help them improve their teaching skills.
Wilson shared that schools often don’t have enough budget for things like play rights, props, or tickets to professional shows. “Sometimes arts funding is tight at certain schools, and it becomes difficult to purchase rights for plays, costumes, set pieces, and tickets to go expose your students to professional theater,” he said.
As a former Title 1 school student himself, Wilson understands the value of opportunities in the arts. Now that he’s a teacher, he plans to spread the word about the grant to other fine arts educators.
Why Performing Arts Matter
Wilson believes that the performing arts have a strong place in public schools. “I think that the performing arts are important in public schools because it gives you a sense of community,” he said.
Through arts education, students get to explore creativity, build confidence, and learn about human connections—skills that go far beyond the classroom.
Application Deadline
First-year teachers in eligible roles can apply for the grant until August 15. This support could be the boost they need to create an engaging and inspiring classroom from day one.