32026-00031 RFA Externships for Teachers

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is soliciting applications under RFA 32026-00031 for the Externships for Teachers program. This initiative allows Texas Local Workforce Development Boards and Institutions of Higher Education to collaborate with schools, adult education and literacy providers, and industry partners to provide teachers with short-term, on-site experiential learning opportunities. The program's goal is to help teachers understand real-world industry skill requirements, which they will then integrate into classroom lesson plans to better prepare students for the local Texas workforce. Eligible applicants must submit their proposals via the TWC online CDER system by September 18, 2025, for a projected grant start date in February 2026. Key program requirements include a minimum externship length of 10 to 15 days and the execution of formal Letters of Agreement or Memorandums of Understanding with partners within 90 days of the award. Financial provisions include teacher stipends of up to 2,000 dollars for participation and 500 dollars for materials, with a general administrative cost cap of 10 percent. Applications are evaluated on a point-based system focusing on outcomes and measures, program implementation, outreach, and administrative planning. Grantees must adhere to strict compliance standards, including 2 C.F.R. Part 200, the Buy Texas mandate, and prohibitions against contracting with entities owned by foreign adversaries. Performance is monitored through quarterly reports and a final closeout package due 60 days after the grant period ends.