The Teacher Quality Partnership Program channels federal funding into higher education institutions that are serious about rebuilding how teachers and school leaders are prepared, held accountable, and developed once they enter the classroom. Rather than funding incremental improvements, the program pushes for structural reform at the institutional level, backing partnerships between universities and high-need schools willing to redesign the pipeline from the ground up.
About the Teacher Quality Partnership Program
Jointly administered by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Department of Labor (DOL) under ALN 84.336S, the FY 2026 competition was announced on May 8, 2026 as part of a broader push to integrate career pathways and workforce readiness into educator preparation. Funded partnerships must implement either reformed pre-baccalaureate or fifth-year teacher preparation programs, or teacher residency programs for recent graduates and mid-career professionals entering education. Projects may last up to five years, with year-one funding confirmed and subsequent years subject to Congressional appropriation.
Funding Size
- Total available: $70,000,000
- Expected awards: 7 to 10 grants
- Year-one award range: $500,000 to $2,000,000
- Required match: 100% from non-federal sources
- Project period: up to 5 years
Who Can Apply
- Institutions of higher education in formal partnership with high-need local education agencies
- Partnerships must include at least one IHE and at least one high-need school or LEA
- National nonprofit entities with a proven record of improving teacher preparation or professional development may apply
- For-profit entities and individuals are not eligible
Geographic Eligibility
- United States only
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Sector or Thematic Focus
- Teacher and school leader preparation program reform
- Evidence-based literacy instruction
- Career pathways and workforce readiness integration in educator training
- Teacher residency programs for career changers and recent graduates
- Accountability of IHEs for producing certified, classroom-ready teachers
Application Process
Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov using the APPLY function. A pre-application webinar was hosted on May 21, 2026; a recording is available on the ED website. A required TQP Program Checklist must be submitted alongside every application.
Required Materials
- Completed application submitted through Grants.gov
- Required TQP Program Checklist
- Partnership documentation confirming IHE and high-need LEA collaboration
- Budget demonstrating 100% non-federal match
- Program narrative addressing selection criteria and priority areas
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Key Dates
- Application deadline: 23 June 2026, at 11:59:59 p.m. ET
Selection Notes
- The FY 2026 competition includes supplemental priorities covering career pathways, workforce readiness, and literacy
- 100% match from non-federal sources is a firm requirement, not a preference
- Funding for years 2 through 5 is not guaranteed and depends on Congressional appropriation