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WT Educators Excellence Initiative

WT Educators Excellence Initiative Logo

Empowering Educators Across the Panhandle

West Texas A&M University is proud to offer the WT Educators Excellence Initiative, beginning second summer 2025 session or fall 2025 courses, providing a 50-percent tuition and mandatory fee reduction for eligible educators in the Region 16 Education Service Center area. This initiative is open to full-time teachers, administrators, librarians, nurses, counselors, paraprofessionals across 60 school districts and three charter schools, as well as Region 16 ESC employees, making it easier for educators to pursue their bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degrees at WT.

Key Benefits

  • 50 percent tuition reduction on all assessed tuition and mandatory fees
  • Available for bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees
  • Simple application process with support from WT's Human Resources team
  • Access to WT’s 66 undergraduate degrees and 44 graduate degrees, including doctoral degrees in agriculture and education
  • Flexible course options, including online and evening classes, to fit your schedule

This initiative is an extraordinary investment in the future of the region’s schools, demonstrating WT’s commitment to serving the Panhandle and empowering educators to bring innovation, leadership, and fresh perspectives back to their classrooms and districts.

High School Teacher

How It Works

Eligible employees can apply for the tuition discount each semester. Once approved, the 50 percent reduction will be applied to tuition and mandatory fees, helping educators pursue their academic goals at a fraction of the cost.

Commitment to Education

WT’s Educators Excellence Initiative underscores the University’s dedication to supporting local educators and strengthening the educational community across Region 16. By investing in our educators and working together, we’re redefining and shaping educational excellence for the entire region.

Get Started

Ready to take the next step in your education? Apply or request more information about how the WT Educators Excellence Initiative can support your professional growth.

Apply for Admission Apply for Tuition Reduction Request More Information Graduate Programs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What is the WT Educators Excellence Initiative?

    The WT Educators Excellence Initiative offers a 50-percent tuition and mandatory fee reduction for eligible educators in Region 16 to pursue bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees at West Texas A&M University.

  2. Who is eligible for the program?

    Eligible employees include full-time educators (teachers, administrators, librarians, nurses, counselors, paraprofessionals, substitute teachers categorized as full-time by their ISD and working full-time hours) and Region 16 ESC employees working across 60 school districts and 3 charter schools in the Texas Panhandle.

  3. What degrees can I pursue with this initiative?

    WT offers 66 undergraduate degrees and 44 graduate degrees, including doctoral degrees in agriculture and educational leadership.

    See our graduate degree page for additional graduate degree information.

  4. How much of a tuition discount is offered?

    Eligible employees will receive a 50 percent reduction on all assessed tuition and mandatory fees for approved courses.

  5. Do I have to apply for the tuition reduction every semester?

    Yes, you must complete a new application for each semester. The tuition reduction applies only to one term at a time.

  6. When should I apply for the tuition reduction?

    Applications must be submitted at least two weeks before the start of the semester, but no sooner than three months before the term’s start date.

  7. How do I apply for the tuition reduction?

    1. Complete the tuition assistance application online.
    2. Obtain approval from your Region 16 ESC HR office.
    3. Submit the approved application to WT Human Resources for processing.
    4. Your application will be processed by the Registrar and Business offices.

  8. Can I apply for tuition reduction retroactively?

    No, retroactive applications for previous terms are not allowed.

  9. What happens if my employment status changes during the semester?

    If your employment status changes, you will remain eligible for the tuition assistance for the current enrolled academic term but will need to reapply for future terms.

  10. What is the application process for the tuition reduction?

    The application must be submitted to WT Human Resources at least two weeks before the semester starts. It will be reviewed by both Region 16 ESC and WT HR offices for approval.

  11. Are there any costs not covered by the tuition reduction?

    The program does not cover housing, books, school supplies, application fees, insurance, or travel costs.

  12. Can I receive other financial aid while using the tuition reduction?

    Yes, you may still qualify for need-based financial aid (like Pell Grants) or departmental scholarships. However, the tuition reduction may affect the amount of federal or state aid awarded (except Pell Grants).

  13. What academic standing do I need to maintain to receive the tuition reduction?

    You must be in good academic standing to qualify for the tuition reduction. This means you cannot be on academic probation and must meet the required GPA for your program.

  14. Are there any exceptions to the rule about not receiving other tuition benefits?

    Yes, you can receive need-based scholarships (such as Pell Grants), departmental scholarships, and approved talent scholarships (e.g., athletics) while benefiting from this program.

  15. Can I use the tuition reduction if I am enrolled in a non-degree program?

    No, the tuition reduction only applies to employees who are enrolled in a degree program (bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral).

  16. What fees are covered by the tuition reduction?

    The reduction applies to statutory tuition, designated tuition, graduate tuition, lab fees, health fees, student services fees and other mandatory fees directly associated with the degree program.

  17. Does the program apply to online courses?

    Yes, the tuition reduction applies to both online courses and traditional on-campus courses.

  18. What happens if my application is denied?

    If your application is denied, WT Human Resources will provide information on the reason for denial. You can contact the office for clarification or assistance in reapplying.

  19. Can I apply for a second master's degree or a doctoral program with this initiative?

    Yes, eligible employees may pursue a second master's degree or a doctoral program, such as the doctoral program in educational leadership offered by WT.

  20. Who can I contact if I have questions or need assistance with the application?

    For questions or assistance, please contact Pam Young, assistant vice president of human resources, by phone at 806-651-3150 or via email at  pyoung@wtamu.edu.

  21. Do I need to apply for both the tuition reduction and admission to an academic program?

    Yes, you must complete two separate processes to take full advantage of the WT Educators Excellence Initiative:

    1. Apply for Admission to an Academic Program

      In addition to the tuition reduction application, you must also meet the admission requirements for your desired degree program (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral). This includes submitting an official application to WT and meeting the academic eligibility criteria for the specific program you are applying to.

    2. Apply for Tuition Reduction

      Submit the tuition assistance application to receive the 50% discount on tuition and mandatory fees. This must be done for each semester you wish to receive the benefit.

  22. Where can I find more information about the cost of attendance at West Texas A&M University?

    The cost of attending West Texas A&M University varies based on your academic program, degree level, and residency status. For detailed information, please visit the Cost of Attendance page and refer to the one-year rate table for the WT Educators Excellence Initiative for the semester you plan to enroll. To discuss the specific costs for your academic program, it’s recommended that you consult the WT Business Office.

 

Program Changes and Discontinuation

West Texas A&M University reserves the right to modify, suspend, or terminate the WT Educators Excellence Initiative or any of its processes at any time, at its sole discretion. Any changes to the program, including eligibility criteria, benefits, application procedures, or other related aspects, will be communicated to eligible participants as necessary. The University is not obligated to provide advance notice of such changes and will make decisions based on its institutional needs and priorities.