Winnsboro Independent School District and Bullard Independent School District have been selected by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to receive funding through the 2026–2028 Innovative Services for Students with Autism Grant. The award comes as part of a highly competitive statewide process authorized by the 89th Texas Legislature.
Only programs demonstrating exceptional quality in evidence-based practices, data-driven instruction, meaningful inclusion, and strong family engagement were selected for funding, making the award a significant achievement for both districts.
The grant application was led by Winnsboro ISD Special Education Director Casey Dunavant and Bullard ISD Special Education Director Shelley Tiner. Their collaborative effort focused on expanding innovative, high-quality supports for students with autism across both districts.
Through the grant, the districts will receive $530,000 in the first year and $750,000 in the second year to enhance services and programming.
The funding will support the implementation of a comprehensive, data-driven model designed to improve functional communication, social-emotional development, and student independence. It will also increase inclusive opportunities for students with autism and strengthen instructional practices through Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
Additionally, the grant will allow both districts to expand the use of technology-supported learning tools for real-time progress monitoring, while also investing in professional development and certification pathways to build staff capacity. Families will benefit from increased training opportunities and stronger engagement initiatives.
Students will receive individualized instruction using research-based tools such as the Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP) and the Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills-Revised (ABLLS-R). Social-emotional learning will also be supported through the Conscious Discipline framework, ensuring students make measurable progress and are prepared for more inclusive learning environments.
District leaders say the partnership between Winnsboro ISD and Bullard ISD will serve as a model for other small and rural districts across Texas, demonstrating how collaboration and evidence-based practices can lead to strong outcomes for students.
“This grant represents a major step forward in expanding opportunities for students with autism and strengthening support systems for families and educators,” district officials said. “We are honored to lead this work and excited about the lasting impact it will have on our students, staff, and communities.”