Now in its sixth year, the Tools for Teachers program is helping Harris County independent school district educators start the 2026-2027 school year fully stocked and ready to teach, thanks to a partnership between Harris County Department of Education (HCDE) and the Education Foundation of Harris County (EFHC).  

At 7 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 28, Harris County public school teachers can register for a $100 credit from the EFHC to purchase classroom supplies through Challenge Office Products, a local online vendor. The credit will be offered to the first 1,628 eligible registered teachers on a first-come, first-served basis. EFHC dedicated $162,800 to this initiative to mitigate the personal costs that teachers incur when purchasing materials to supplement the curriculum. 

Interested educators are encouraged to be ready when registration opens. Last year, the Tools for Teachers registration was filled in just five minutes. 

“Teachers spend so much of their own time and resources making sure their classrooms have what students need,” said Trina Silva, Education Foundation and Partnerships Director for HCDE. “Tools for Teachers is one small way we can help take some of the burden off educators and put more resources directly into their classrooms. We are excited to once again support teachers across Harris County.” 

Eligible registered teachers will receive an email with a coupon code and instructions on how to purchase the supplies online. The credit may not be used for furniture, electronics or clothing. Qualifying applicants can shop from Sept. 14-21, 2026. 

Educators must register with a valid email from a Harris County public school district or ISD-authorized charter school. Teachers from private schools or schools outside of Harris County are not eligible for the credit.  

All supplies will be shipped directly to the teacher’s school free of charge. Items shipped to a residential address will be charged a $12 fee.  

Eligible teachers may register beginning Aug. 28 at www.hcde-texas.org/toolsforteachers.