Grow Your Own Teacher Scholarship

How do I apply?

What is it? 

A scholarship for eligible educational assistants and public school staff who want to become licensed teachers. 

How much is available? 

Up to $6,000 per year, which can cover tuition, fees, books, supplies and other costs. 

Eligibility Criteria: 

Let us pre-qualify you for the GYOT scholarships! In an effort to better identify students eligible, we have created a supplementary intake form [insert link] to collect information from potential recipients. Data collected from this form will be used with Banner/myNMSU and Scholar Dollar data in an effort to maximize awards.

• Must be a resident of New Mexico. 
• Accepted into NMSU-Dona Ana Community College’s Education or Early Childhood program.
• Has not earned appropriate educational credentials to be licensed as a teacher by the Public Education Department. 
• Has demonstrated financial need as verified by the financial aid office through the student's FASFA. 
• Has worked as a school employee in a New Mexico public school in a position that works directly with students for at least two years and Is in good employment standing with the school.

Scholarship recipients must: 

• Meet satisfactory academic progress. 
• Continue to be enrolled at least 6 hours in the program and institution that granted the GYOT scholarship.
• Maintain a 2.75 GPA throughout their participation in the program. Failure to maintain a 2.75 GPA will result in immediate removal of the program. 
• Earn grades of at least a C or better. A grade of a D or F in this program is unacceptable.

How to Apply:

• Step 1: Complete and submit your FAFSA
• Step 2: Use the sample petition letter provided to petition your Human Resources Department at your School District for professional leave. Be prepared to upload the acceptance letter from your School District. Sample Grow Your Own Teachers Petition
• Step 3: Complete the Questionnaire below with all documentation required. If you feel that you qualify for this scholarship, please submit the following form.

For additional information about this scholarship opportunity and more, contact: