January 25, 2024

Congressman Castro Secures $4.5 Million to Expand College and Career Readiness Programs at Seven SAISD High Schools

SAN ANTONIO — Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) announced that his office has secured an anticipated $4.5 million in federal grant funding over the next three years to support college and career readiness programs at seven San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) high schools. Earlier this month, the Department of Education issued a notification of the first grant allocation, which includes $1,492,381 to cover the budget period from 2/1/2024 to 1/31/2025.

“Over the last several years, San Antonio ISD leaders have invested serious time and effort in expanded programming to help our students prepare to succeed in college and the workforce. As a graduate of Jefferson High School, I’m proud to see this progress, and my office is committed to doing everything we can to help it continue. Investments in San Antonio’s students are investments in a bright future for our city, and I look forward to seeing the impact of today’s grant on the lifetime success of our students and their families,” said Congressman Castro.

“We are extremely grateful for this opportunity to expand our college and career readiness programs, and we thank Congressman Castro for his support,” said Dr. Jaime Aquino, SAISD superintendent. “We are particularly pleased that this funding will strengthen the experience for both our students and educators, supporting our efforts to give all students a high-quality education.” 

With support from the grant announced today, seven SAISD high schools (Sam Houston High School, Highlands High School, Lanier High School, Brackenridge High School, Jefferson High School, Edison High School, and Burbank High School) will partner with Alamo Colleges, Communities In Schools, Alamo Workforce Solutions, Southwest Research Institute, UP Partnership, SA Worx, and other community, industry, and college partners to advance initiatives focused on four priorities:

  1. Improving college readiness and enrollment among SAISD students.
  2. Improving access to post-secondary credentials by increasing the number of SAISD students who earn an industry certification, Level I certification, 12 or more hours of dual credit, and/or a college degree while still enrolled in high school.
  3. Expanding work-based learning experiences for SAISD students.
  4. Attracting and retaining highly qualified dual credit teachers.