Illumination Awards

ILLUMINATION AWARDS

✨Shining a Light on Innovation in Santa Fe ISD! 

The Illumination Awards are more than just grants—they’re a celebration of creativity, opportunity, and excellence in education! ✨

Through this inspiring program, the Santa Fe Texas Education Foundation provides Santa Fe ISD teachers and students the chance to bring their big ideas to life. Whether it’s a fresh approach to learning, much-needed resources, or a bold, innovative classroom project—Illumination Awards fund what matters most: students and success. 

The Illumination Awards Committee proudly leads both the Illumination Awards and Classroom Wish List programs, working hard to ensure every dollar reaches where it’s needed most—making a real difference for the greatest number of students, educators, and campuses across the district. 

To our educators: Dream big. To our community: Thank you for making it possible. Together, we’re lighting the way to brighter futures in Santa Fe ISD! 

Apply Monthly — August through April!

Educators, your opportunity to shine happens each month!

Applications are due by the 10th of every month from August through April.
Our committee carefully reviews each submission to ensure it aligns with the program’s goals and criteria.

✅ Before you apply, be sure to review the Policies & Procedures linked below. Following the guidelines is essential for your project to be considered.

Let your creativity lead the way—we can’t wait to see your ideas come to life! ✨

Present Your Project In Person

Some ideas are just too bright to stay on paper—now’s your chance to bring your vision to life!

Once your application meets the program criteria, you may be invited to present your Illumination Award idea in person to our committee.

✨ Make it memorable:
✅ Bring your students
✅ Invite proud families to cheer you on
✅ Share your passion face-to-face!

We believe in recognizing great ideas when they happen. That’s why our monthly meetings (dates announced throughout the year) allow us to award funds on a rolling basis—no need to wait for a once-a-year decision.

Let your creativity shine—we can’t wait to see it in action!

Project Funding

Illumination Awards are available for projects over $500.

Final Reports Reminder

Did you receive an Illumination Award last year?
Don’t forget to submit your Final Report Form—it’s required to remain eligible for 2025–26 funding.

✅ Reflect on the impact
✅ Celebrate your success
✅ Stay eligible for future awards!

Click the button below to complete your final report. We can’t wait to hear how your project made a difference!

Explore our funded projects and relive the excitement through photos and videos from our surprise Grant Parade!

Cultivate. Nuture. Ignite. Inspire.