ESC Region 11 is excited to announce the launch of the PREP Mentorship Program, a new Next-Level Leadership opportunity designed to strengthen teacher preparation and retention across Texas. Offered through the Texas Education Agency (TEA) as part of the PREP Allotment, this program gives school districts and charter schools the chance to receive grant funding in exchange for building high-quality mentorship systems that support beginning teachers.

At its core, the PREP Mentorship Program equips experienced teachers with the skills and resources needed to serve as mentors for those just entering the classroom. By focusing on mentorship, districts can improve teacher effectiveness, increase retention, and ultimately impact student success. Participating LEAs can access funding that supports mentor stipends, release time for mentoring activities, and training through the Texas Mentorship Training (TMT).

For districts, the benefits are both instructional and financial. The PREP Allotment provides anywhere from $3,000 to $120,000, depending on the number of beginning teachers supported, making it possible for LEAs to design and implement sustainable mentorship programs. The investment doesn’t just strengthen recruitment pipelines—it builds a culture of collaboration that helps new teachers thrive.

ESC Region 11 is here to walk LEAs through every step of the process. As an approved TMT provider, our Texas Mentorship Trainer will deliver professional learning for mentor teachers and lead design sessions with district and campus leaders. This includes 24 hours of training for mentors, along with structured design sessions to help school leaders create systems that ensure mentorship is intentional, sustainable, and aligned with TEA’s vision for effective teaching.

“Mentorship is one of the most powerful tools we have to support new teachers,” said Lindsey Rudnick, PREP Program contact at ESC Region 11. “Through the PREP Mentorship Program, districts have access not only to funding but also to research-based strategies and direct support to make mentorship work for their schools.”

Districts interested in participating can opt in through the LASO IV grant application window, open October 3 through December 3, 2025 by 5 p.m. Award announcements are anticipated in February 2026, with program activities beginning soon after.

For more information about how your district can take advantage, visit the PREP Mentorship Program page or contact Lindsey Rudnick at lrudnick@esc11.net or 817-740-7527.