Frances Brownlie Scholarship Program
In an effort to 'grow our own teachers', the MISD Education Foundation partnered with Mansfield ISD to create a scholarship program for currently employed MISD paraprofessionals and auxiliary employees who want to become teachers. Generous donations were made by community supporters who understand the importance of education and in 2019, the Frances Brownlie 'Transition to Teach' Scholarship was born.
The Frances Brownlie Scholarship will allow paraprofessionals and auxiliary employees in the Transition to Teach (T3) program to maintain their current position during the day while acquiring their alternative teaching certification in the evenings and during the summer.
Program Guidelines
All interested Mansfield ISD paraprofessionals and auxiliary employees must complete the T3 application.
NOTE: The application form must be completed in its entirety once it is started. You might consider previewing the application and creating your responses in a separate program before beginning the online application process.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Current full-time Mansfield ISD paraprofessional or auxiliary employees
- Must hold a completed bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
- Minimum of 2.5 GPA (based on cumulative GPA or the last 60 completed college credit hours)
- Must meet UTA Alternative Certification acceptance policies and requirements
Must submit unofficial transcripts to MISD Human Resources office for evaluation of minimum GPA requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a full-time MISD employee?
Yes. You must be a current full-time paraprofessional or auxiliary employee. Substitutes are not eligible.
When is the deadline to apply?
The deadline to apply for the current cohort is Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
Can I apply if I am still working on my bachelor's degree?
No. You must have already completed your degree and have it officially conferred before applying.
What if I have more than a bachelor's degree?
That's great - you are still eligible as long as you meet all other requirements.
What GPA do I need?
A minimum 2.5 GPA, based on either your cumulative GPA or your last 60 completed college credit hours.
What costs are covered?
The program covers tuition, certification exam fee, one retest certification fee if needed, 3 months of 240Tutoring prior to taking the initial certification exam, 2 months of 240Tutoring prior to taking the PPR certification exam, and substitute costs for 2 weeks of student teaching.
Will I have any out-of-pocket expenses?
Possibly. If additional test prep or exam retakes are needed beyond what is covered, those costs are the responsibility of the participant.
How does reimbursement work?
Participants will pay upfront for approved expenses (240Tutoring, certification exams, intern certificate, and standard certificate) and submit receipts (PDF format) to the MISD Education Foundation for reimbursement within 90 days.
How long does the program take?
A timeline is provided to candidates before beginning the program. Participants will be ready to begin teaching in August or January.
Am I guaranteed a job in Mansfield ISD?
No. You will have to interview for jobs just as any other candidate would need to do.
Is there a a time commitment to the district once I complete the program?
Yes. Once completing the program, you are agreeing to work for MISD for 2 years.
What am I able to teach?
Currently, the district has a high need for teachers in the following areas:
- EC-6 Bilingual
- Secondary Math (Grades 7-12)
- Secondary Science (Grades 7-12)
- Secondary Language Arts (Grades 7-12)
- Special Education (EC-12)
NOTE: These areas may change based on district needs.
How will I know what I am qualified to teach?
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) will review your college transcripts to determine which subject areas you are eligible to teach.
Who do I contact for more information?
Main Contact:
Frances Brownlie Liaison
Jenny Roberson
For Reimbursements or Application Questions
Toni Glendenning
For HR Transcript Submissions
Kia Crosby
About the namesake, Frances Brownlie
Mary Keller Brownlie
Beloved Mother and Grandmother
December 9, 1923 - February 13, 2013
Frances was a loving mother and grandmother, a kind and true friend and an expert at baking chocolate chip cookies. She was known for her incredible work ethic, her ready laugh, quick wit, and kind spirit.
Frances was born in Minnesota, moved to California after graduating high school and proudly worked as a "Rosie the Riveter." Frances took great pride in her work repairing B-17s damaged in combat. Frances was married for 41 years and had two children. He children and grandchildren adored her and are happy her legacy is continuing through this scholarship.
Her friends and family are sure that it would make Frances proud to be a part of bettering the lives of other individuals by giving them the opportunity to obtain their teaching certificate through the Mansfield ISD scholarship that bears her name.
