2026/2027 · class of 2027
This scholarship is dedicated in loving memory of Blake Cooper, a lifelong champion of Texas public education. Blake served as a teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent before becoming Executive Director of Friends of Texas Public Schools, where his voice and vision helped advance our mission statewide. He believed deeply in the power of public schools to change lives, and he spent his career proving it. By honoring students who share their public school story, we carry forward the work Blake gave his life to. We are grateful for his leadership and the legacy he leaves across Texas education.
Graduating seniors are invited to apply by using their voice and visual media (i.e., video) to share how their public school education has impacted them. We want to hear the story only they can tell, from their own perspective, about the great things happening in Texas public schools.
One scholarship will be awarded this year. Applicants may be college-bound, joining the workforce, continuing education through trade schools or other forms of post-secondary training, or the military.
key dates & format
Those interested in applying for the scholarship must do the following:
Prepare a video/multimedia presentation, 2 minutes or less, regarding how your public school education has impacted your life/career choice and prepared you to meet your future goals.
*Please make sure we can hear the audio*
Request one letter from a teacher, guidance counselor, principal, vice-principal, or superintendent related to the student's work in school (pdf preferred).
Complete the application. Include how the scholarship will be used for the student's future/help achieve my goals, including approval to use video/presentation, the link for presentation, upload the recommendation letter, and submit.
Any graduating senior from a Friends of Texas Public Schools Network school district.
Yes. A student must agree to attend the Friends of Texas Public Schools awards dinner held on November 12th in Austin to receive the recognition personally. Friends of Texas Public Schools will pay for reasonable travel accommodations.
No. This award aims to assist the winner with starting their future after high school.
The award amount for 2026 is $2,500.
Yes. The winners will be required to submit a picture that will be used in our program and other media.
apply
View previous winning submissions below for an idea of what the selection team is looking for.
we’d love to hear from youSend us your questions or express interest in supporting Friends of Texas Public Schools.
welcome aboardSchool District Network Membership for the 2026-2027 school year.
let's build somethingWe'll review your submission and follow up to explore fit and next steps.
pull up a chairNominate a principal, assistant principal, or other campus or district leader — or put your own name forward.
the story is better with you in itThree ways in — pick the one that fits you.