National PTA Grants and Awards

National PTA Grants: Every year National PTA offers funding eligible PTAs to help host National PTA programs in the areas of digital safety, STEM, healthy lifestyles, the arts and more. While National PTA programs are free, funding can help cover the costs of custodial services, childcare, food, transportation and translation services to ensure all families can participate. Grant applications open September 15-October 13, 2026.

Outstanding Advocacy Awards:The National PTA Outstanding Advocacy Awards honor state, local and individual PTA advocates for taking action to make a difference for the education, health, safety and well-being of every child. Awardees are honored during National PTA’s Legislative Conference in March.

Jan Harp Domene Diversity and Inclusion Awards: The Jan Harp Domene Diversity and Inclusion Awards recognize PTAs that best demonstrate outstanding achievement in the areas of diversity and inclusion, as well as efforts to end discriminatory practices. Awardees are honored during National PTA’s Annual Convention in June. They will receive a $1,000 cash award along with a trophy and certificates, along with further opportunities for recognition.

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School of Excellence is a program for local PTAs and school communities to identify and implement an action plan for school improvement based on National PTA’s National Standards for Family-School Partnerships.

We congratulate the six 2025–2027 National PTA School of Excellence designees in Illinois: Armstrong PTA, Hoffman Estates; Helen Keller Junior High School PTA, Schaumburg; Lincoln Elementary School PTA, Palatine; MacArthur PTA, Hoffman Estates; Stuart R. Paddock PTA, Palatine; Whiteley PTA, Hoffman Estates.

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The 2026–2027 PTA Reflections theme is “What My Culture Means to Me.” The PTA Reflections program provides opportunities for recognition and access to the arts which boosts student confidence. Visual and performing arts naturally align with established Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) goals.

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Illinois PTA’s 2026–2027 Outstanding Leaders Awards

Nomination Window: January 1–March 1
Each year, Illinois PTA recognizes individuals who make a lasting difference in the education, health, safety, and well-being of every child. Nominations are accepted for the Outstanding Administrator, Outstanding Teacher, and Outstanding Volunteer awards.